Indian Navy Takes Historic Command of Multinational Task Force 154

The Indian Navy has formally assumed command of Combined Task Force 154, a multinational training task force under the Combined Maritime Forces. The change of command ceremony was held in Manama, Bahrain, with senior military leaders from member nations in attendance. CTF 154 is dedicated to enhancing maritime security through training focused on areas like maritime domain awareness and law of the sea. This command underscores India's growing role as a trusted security partner in the region.

Key Points: Indian Navy Assumes Command of Combined Task Force 154

  • Landmark command of multinational task force
  • Focus on training and capacity building
  • Enhances maritime security partnerships
  • Covers five core training pillars
  • Part of 47-nation Combined Maritime Forces
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Indian Navy assumes first-ever command of Combined Task Force 154

India takes command of key multinational maritime training task force, CTF 154, highlighting its role as a preferred security partner in the Indian Ocean.

Indian Navy assumes first-ever command of Combined Task Force 154
"It reflects the region's growing trust in India's professional expertise, operational experience, and role as a Preferred Security Partner - Press Release"

New Delhi, February 12

In a landmark development underscoring India's commitment to collaborative maritime security and capacity building in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond, the Indian Navy has assumed command of Combined Task Force 154, a key multinational training task force under the Combined Maritime Forces.

According to a press release, the change of command ceremony was conducted on February 11 at CMF Headquarters in Manama, Bahrain, and was presided over by VAdm Curt A Renshaw, Commander, CMF / US NAVCEN/US Fifth Fleet.

VAdm Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (DCNS), Indian Navy, and senior military leaders from other member nations were in attendance. Cmde Milind M Mokashi, Shaurya Chakra, of the Indian Navy, formally took over as Commander CTF 154 from the outgoing Commander of the Italian Navy.

According to the release, CTF 154 is specifically oriented toward training and capacity building for member nations of the CMF. It reflects the region's growing trust in India's professional expertise, operational experience, and role as a Preferred Security Partner among the 47 nations of the CMF.

CTF 154, established in May 2023, is dedicated to enhancing maritime security through multinational training programs across the Middle East and the wider region.

The training focuses on five core pillars: Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Law of the Sea, Maritime Interdiction Operations, Maritime Rescue and Assistance, and Leadership Development.

The task force conducts regular Maritime Security Enhancement Training (MSET) events, exercises such as Compass Rose and Northern/Southern Readiness, and outreach to build partner nations' operational capabilities to address common threats, including illegal trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration, according to the release.

CTF 154 operates alongside CMF's other task forces: CTF 150 (Maritime Security), CTF 151 (Counter-Piracy), CTF 152 (Maritime Security in Arabian Gulf) and CTF 153 (Maritime Security in Red Sea).

The Indian Navy looks forward to a productive tenure, delivering high-impact training initiatives and reinforcing global maritime partnerships for peace, prosperity, and security.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
As someone who follows international security, this is a significant and positive step. India's focus on training and capacity building, rather than just patrols, is the right approach for long-term regional stability. Well done to the Indian Navy team.
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Vikram M
Fantastic news! The Indian Ocean is our backyard and securing it is our responsibility. Leading CTF 154 allows us to share our hard-earned expertise in anti-piracy and maritime security with partner nations. A true 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' moment.
R
Rohit P
While this is an achievement, I hope our focus remains on our primary area of concern. We must ensure this multinational commitment doesn't stretch our resources thin when we have our own coastal and EEZ security to manage first.
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Priya S
So proud! 👏 It's great to see India stepping up as a leader, not just a participant. Training in maritime law and rescue operations is so crucial. Hope this also brings more opportunities for our young officers and sailors.
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Michael C
This is a logical evolution. India has been a consistent and professional actor in these waters for years. Command of a training task force is a natural fit given their experience. Good for regional security cooperation.

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