The Indian Navy has assumed command of the Combined Task Force 154, marking the first time India has led the multinational training task force under the Combined Maritime Forces.
The change of command ceremony took place at the CMF headquarters in Manama, Bahrain, on Wednesday. The ceremony was presided over by Vice Admiral Curt A. Renshaw, with the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff of India and senior military leaders from various member nations also in attendance.
Combined Task Force 154 plays a key role in strengthening maritime security by focusing on training and capacity-building initiatives for the 47-member multinational naval partnership. India’s leadership of the task force highlights its growing role in ensuring maritime stability and security in the Indian Ocean Region and surrounding areas.
The task force was established in May 2023 to enhance regional maritime cooperation through joint training programmes across the Middle East and neighbouring regions. CTF-154 regularly conducts Maritime Security Enhancement Training events and leads major exercises, including Compass Rose and Northern and Southern Readiness drills.
India’s command of the task force is being seen as a significant step towards strengthening international maritime collaboration and boosting operational readiness among partner nations.
