Indian Navy CTF 154 Training: The Combined Maritime Forces which is also known as CMF, has many countries working together to keep seas safe. The Indian Navy is leading one of its groups called Combined Task Force 154. Just 1 day after taking charge, on Feb. 12, 2026, the team started a special training session on board the warship INS Surat.
This was the first Staff Enhancement Training under the new command. Around 23 officers and sailors from 10 different countries joined the program. The main goal was simple. They wanted to work better together and understand each other’s systems so that they can operate smoothly during real missions.
The training covered many practical things. The visitors were shown around the ship to understand how it works. There was also a visit, board, search and seizure drill, which is known as VBSS. The team even saw a new type of battery powered and self moving lifebuoy that can help rescue someone who falls into the sea.
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The ship’s aviation team also gave live demos. They showed how to fight a fire involving a helicopter. They practiced rescuing injured people. They explained what to do during an oil spill. They also talked about flight safety rules and how helicopters are safely brought back onto the ship.
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The crew did not only train at sea. They also met teams at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. They visited a special VBSS training center and the United States Coast Guard “Ship in the Box” facility, where boarding operations are practiced in a controlled setting.
The team also interacted with members of Task Force 59. There they saw new ideas being tested. These included the use of unmanned systems and artificial intelligence to improve maritime operations.
Officials shared that such training proves how nations can cooperate to keep the region safe. Working together helps them respond faster and in a more organized way when needed.
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CTF 154
CTF 154 was formed in May 2023. Its main job is to run training programs across the Middle East. One special feature of this task force is that countries can join the training even if they do not send ships or aircraft. Many courses are held on land so that more partner nations can take part.
The task force focuses on five main areas. These include maritime awareness, maritime law, stopping illegal activities at sea, rescue and assistance missions, and building leadership skills.
CMF is based in Bahrain. and it works alongside United States Naval Forces Central Command and United States Fifth Fleet. It is known as the largest multinational naval partnership in the world. A total of 46 nations are part of it. All of them support a rules based system at sea.
