Indian Navy Takes Command of Multinational Training Task Force
In a significant step towards enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region and beyond, the Indian Navy has officially taken command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154. This multinational training task force operates under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and underscores India’s commitment to collaborative maritime initiatives.
The change of command ceremony took place on February 11, 2026, at the CMF Headquarters located in Manama, Bahrain. The event was attended by Vice Admiral Curt A. Renshaw, who is the Commander of CMF, US NAVCENT, and the US Fifth Fleet. Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, was also present, along with senior military leaders from other member nations. During the ceremony, Commander Milind M. Mokashi, a recipient of the Shaurya Chakra, officially took the reins of CTF 154, succeeding the outgoing commander from the Italian Navy.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
Established in May 2023, CTF 154 is focused on fostering training and capacity-building among CMF member nations. This initiative reflects the growing trust that these nations place in India’s professional expertise and operational capabilities, recognizing India as a Preferred Security Partner among its 47 member nations.
The training offered by CTF 154 revolves around five critical pillars: Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), the Law of the Sea, Maritime Interdiction Operations, Maritime Rescue and Assistance, and Leadership Development. The task force is committed to conducting regular Maritime Security Enhancement Training (MSET) events along with various exercises such as Compass Rose, Northern/Southern Readiness, and engagement initiatives to bolster partner nations’ operational strengths against shared threats including illegal trafficking, piracy, and irregular migration.
Collaborative Maritime Security Efforts
CTF 154 cooperates with other task forces within the CMF framework, such as CTF 150 focused on Maritime Security, CTF 151 for Counter-Piracy, CTF 152 dedicated to Maritime Security in the Arabian Gulf, and CTF 153 which targets Maritime Security in the Red Sea.
As the Indian Navy embarks on this pivotal role, it anticipates a fruitful term filled with impactful training initiatives that will reinforce global maritime partnerships aimed at ensuring peace, prosperity, and security in the region.
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