The Indian Navy has commenced Operation Southern Readiness 26-2, a four-day multinational maritime security training programme, at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. The exercise began on July 20 and is being conducted under the aegis of the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) in collaboration with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
The maiden edition of Operation Southern Readiness being hosted in India has brought together 254 participants from 26 countries, along with 74 facilitators, representatives from four international organisations and subject matter experts. The engagement marks a significant milestone in the expanding cooperation between the Indian Navy and CMF towards enhancing maritime security capabilities.
CTF 154, the dedicated training task force of CMF, is currently commanded by the Indian Navy and focuses on strengthening operational preparedness, interoperability and capacity-building among CMF partner nations through multinational training initiatives.
The opening ceremony featured addresses by Cmde Milind M Mokashi, Commander CTF 154, Cmde Dan Thomas, Deputy Commander, Combined Maritime Forces, and Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, Chief Staff Officer (Training), Headquarters Southern Naval Command. The speakers highlighted the importance of professional training, knowledge sharing and coordinated efforts among maritime forces to tackle evolving security challenges.
The first day of the exercise focused on ship management and specialised training, featuring expert-led sessions and practical demonstrations. A session conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) examined maritime security challenges in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean regions.
Participants also received hands-on training in ship handling, navigation, astro navigation, maritime distress communication systems, damage control and firefighting using advanced simulators and training facilities of the Indian Navy.
The remaining days of the exercise will include professional interactions, simulator-based training and practical activities covering various aspects of maritime security operations. The programme aims to enhance regional cooperation, interoperability and collective readiness among participating nations.
The conduct of Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 further reinforces the Indian Navy’s role as a preferred security and training partner in the region while strengthening international partnerships for a secure and stable maritime environment.
