In a landmark achievement for India’s maritime prowess, the Indian Navy has assumed command of Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) for the first time. This elite multinational force, operating under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) framework involving 47 nations, underscores India’s rising stature in global sea security.
The command handover ceremony unfolded on February 11 at the CMF headquarters in Manama, Bahrain. Attended by U.S. Navy seniors and CMF Commander Vice Admiral Kurt A. Rensch, the event saw Indian Navy Deputy Chief Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti in attendance. Commodore Milind M. Mokashi formally received the reins from his Italian Navy counterpart, marking a pivotal moment in international naval collaboration.
Established in May 2023, CTF 154 focuses on bolstering maritime training and capacity-building for member states, particularly in the Middle East and surrounding waters. India’s leadership role signals the international community’s trust in its professional expertise, operational experience, and command capabilities. As a preferred security partner, India is poised to elevate regional maritime vigilance.
Training under CTF 154 emphasizes surveillance of sea activities, adherence to maritime law, boarding suspicious vessels, search-and-rescue operations, and leadership development. Regular initiatives like Maritime Security Enhancement Training, Compass Rose, and Northern/Southern Readiness exercises equip nations to counter illicit trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration.
CTF 154 complements other CMF units: CTF 150 for broad maritime security, CTF 151 against piracy, CTF 152 for Arabian Sea, and CTF 153 for Red Sea. Together, they safeguard vital sea lanes, ensure smooth global trade, and promote regional stability.
The Indian Navy commits to delivering top-tier training during its tenure, fostering deeper trust and cooperation among partners. This milestone reinforces India’s strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean Region, advancing peace, prosperity, and security across shared waters.