MANAMA, Bahrain – Sri Lanka-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, in collaboration with the New Zealand-led CTF 150, conducted a comprehensive visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) training session at the U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Engagement Training (MET) facility onboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, June 1.  This initiative highlights the Combined Maritime Forces’ (CMF) commitment to enhancing maritime security through multinational cooperation and knowledge sharing.

The training was conducted by two experienced specialists from HMNZS Te Kaha who provided in-depth lectures and shared practical experiences from their operational deployments.  Their insights offered participants a valuable perspective on real-world VBSS operations, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and coordination in maritime security missions. Twelve participants from CMF and other CTFs, representing eight different countries, attended the session. 

Sri Lankan Navy Commodore Manjula Hewa Battage, commander of CTF 154, highlighted the significance of such training events. “Sharing real ground experience with our partner nations is crucial in building a cohesive and effective maritime security force. We extend our sincere gratitude to the resource personnel for their dedication and commitment to this cause,” Battage said.

CTF 154 was established May 2023, and is one of five operational task forces under Combined Maritime Forces. CTF 154 leads multinational maritime training at locations across the Middle East, enabling more CMF partner nations to participate in training opportunities without ships or aircraft, particularly during courses that are facilitated ashore.

CMF headquartered in Bahrain with U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet, is the largest multinational naval partnership in the world, with 46 nations committed to upholding the international rules-based order at sea. It promotes security, stability and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.