Commander Combined Task Force 154 calls on Commander of the Navy

A delegation led by the Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, Commodore Haytham Elsayed Khalil called on the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera at the Navy Headquarters today (02nd October 2024). The Sri Lanka Navy is set to assume command of Combined Task Force 154, a unit under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the world’s largest maritime coalition, based in Bahrain.

The Commander of the Navy extended a warm welcome to the visiting delegates upon their arrival. During the discussions, they focused on key bilateral issues, particularly the Sri Lanka Navy's upcoming responsibility for Combined Task Force 154. The cordial meeting concluded with the exchange of mementoes.

CMF comprises 46 maritime partners and operates with the focus of counter-narcotics, counter-smuggling and suppressing piracy. The Sri Lanka joined hands with CMF as its 39th member country in 2023. Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Navy actively participates in joint maritime security operations, representing the country to promote a safe maritime environment free from illicit non-state actors.

The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) comprises five Combined Task Forces (CTFs), each assigned specific roles in various maritime environments. CTF 150 is responsible for Maritime Security Operations in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Oman. CTF 151 focuses on Counter-Piracy operations in the same regions. CTF 152 handles Maritime Security Operations in the Arabian Gulf, while CTF 153 conducts similar operations in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Additionally, CTF 154 is dedicated to Maritime Security Training.

The Sri Lanka Navy's opportunity to lead its 154 Task Force in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces, a maritime partnership recognized as the largest in the world, marks a significant milestone in the Navy's proud 74-year history.

Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Navy will undertake the responsibilities of the 154th Task Force, focusing on training initiatives aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of member navies. This effort seeks to bolster maritime security through increased maritime awareness, the application of maritime law, effective maritime interdiction, rescue and assistance operations, and leadership development. This will not only enhance the Sri Lanka Navy's international recognition as a capable naval force operating in a vast maritime region, from domestic waters in the Indian Ocean to international seas, but it will also significantly elevate the country's reputation on the global stage.

After the courtesy call, the Commander of the Navy presided over a meeting with Commodore Haytham Elsayed Khalil, Commander Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, Deputy Commander CTF 154, Commander William Franklin Campbell, and Lieutenant Mohamed Abdelrahman Mohamed Eldaltouny, the Maritime Security Enhancement Training Planner. The discussion focused on the transition of command for CTF 154. Also attending the meeting were the Director General Operations, Rear Admiral Nishantha Peiris, Director General Training, Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage, along with other senior officers from Navy Headquarters.