Washington, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Indian Navy has taken the helm of Combined Task Force 154, marking a significant milestone as it becomes the first to lead this multinational training initiative under the Combined Maritime Forces.

The formal change of command ceremony occurred on Feb. 11 at the headquarters of the CMF in Manama, Bahrain. This significant event was overseen by Vice Admiral Curt A. Renshaw, Commander of the CMF, US NAVCENT, and the US Fifth Fleet.

In attendance was Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, the Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, alongside senior military officials from various member nations.

Commodore Milind M. Mokashi, recipient of the Shaurya Chakra, officially assumed command of CTF-154, succeeding the outgoing commander from the Italian Navy.

CTF-154 is dedicated to training and enhancing capabilities for the member nations of the 47-nation Combined Maritime Forces. This transition underscores India’s dedication to collaborative maritime security not only in the Indian Ocean Region but also globally.

Established in May 2023, the task force aims to bolster maritime security through various multinational training programs across the Middle East and surrounding areas.

The training framework is structured around five key pillars: Maritime Domain Awareness, Law of the Sea, Maritime Interdiction Operations, Maritime Rescue and Assistance, and Leadership Development.

CTF-154 carries out regular Maritime Security Enhancement Training events, along with exercises such as Compass Rose and Northern and Southern Readiness.

These initiatives are designed to fortify partner nations’ capabilities against shared threats including illegal trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration.

CTF-154 collaborates with other CMF task forces: CTF-150 focuses on maritime security, CTF-151 addresses counter-piracy, CTF-152 ensures maritime security in the Arabian Gulf, while CTF-153 oversees security in the Red Sea.

India’s new command signifies increasing trust in its professional skills and operational capabilities. It also highlights the recognition of India as a preferred security partner among CMF nations.

The Indian Navy expressed its eagerness for a fruitful term, aiming to implement impactful training programs and strengthen global maritime partnerships for peace, prosperity, and security.

The Combined Maritime Forces represent a multinational naval alliance based in Bahrain, uniting 47 nations to foster security and stability across crucial international waters in the Middle East and adjacent regions.

In recent years, India has expanded its maritime engagement significantly, increasing joint exercises, anti-piracy patrols, and humanitarian missions throughout the Indian Ocean. The Indian Navy has positioned itself as a net security provider in the area, collaborating with partners to safeguard vital sea lanes for global trade and energy supplies.