In a significant milestone for the maritime coalition, the Sri Lanka Navy is gearing up to take the Command of CTF 154, a unit operating within the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the world’s largest maritime coalition headquartered in Bahrain. A delegation led by Commodore Haytham Elsayed Khalil, Commander of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, met with Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, in Colombo last week to discuss the transition of command for CTF 154, reported ‘The Island‘.
The Combined Maritime Forces comprise 46 maritime partners focusing on counter-narcotics, counter-smuggling, and piracy suppression. In 2023, Sri Lanka joined the CMF as its 39th member country and has been actively participating in joint maritime security operations to promote a safe maritime environment free from illicit non-state actors.
CMF has five Combined Task Forces (CTFs), each with specific roles. CTF 150 is responsible for maritime security operations in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Oman, while CTF 151 focuses on counter-piracy operations in those regions. CTF 152 handles maritime security operations in the Arabian Gulf, and CTF 153 conducts similar operations in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. CTF 154 is dedicated to maritime security training.
Assuming command of CTF 154 represents a significant milestone in the Sri Lanka Navy’s 74-year history, according to Lankan media outlet ‘The Island’. The Navy will focus on training initiatives to enhance member navies’ operational capabilities, including promoting maritime awareness, applying maritime law, conducting effective maritime interdiction, and leading rescue and assistance operations. This leadership role will enhance the Sri Lanka Navy’s international recognition as a capable force in the vast maritime region, from domestic waters in the Indian Ocean to international seas, thereby elevating the country’s reputation on the global stage.
Team BharatShakti (With inputs from The Island)
