NEW DELHI, October 15: The Indian Navy completed its first command of a Combined Maritime Forces task force at a handover ceremony in Manama, Bahrain, on October 14, the Defence Ministry announced.
Who handed over command?
Commodore Milind M Mokashi relinquished command of Combined Task Force 154 to Commander Melissa Desjardins, its deputy commander, who received responsibility on behalf of CMF headquarters.
India had assumed command on February 11, 2026. CTF 154, established in May 2023, is the partnership’s maritime-training task force.
What happened during the tenure?
According to the ministry, the eight-month period included 20 staff-training engagements, two major multinational exercises and an exchange on piracy and armed robbery. Activities generated more than 7,800 training hours, with personnel from 39 countries taking part.
Southern Readiness 26-2, held in Kochi from July 20–23, involved 276 personnel from 27 countries. India became a full CMF member in 2023 after joining as an associate partner in 2022.
Why the training role matters
This is a command-handover and training story. The figures describe participation and instruction; they should not be presented as ships deployed, combat operations completed or piracy incidents prevented.
In a multinational setting, common procedures and information-sharing practices can be as important as equipment. Training offers a way for personnel from different services to understand how partners communicate and coordinate.
The ministry’s participation totals describe the scale of the programme. Assessing its lasting operational effects would require evidence beyond attendance numbers and the handover announcement.
Sources and image credit
Official source (checked October 15, 2026).
CTF 154 change-of-command ceremony in Manama, Bahrain, October 14, 2026. Photo: Indian Navy / Ministry of Defence / PIB. Reproduced under PIB’s copyright policy; no endorsement implied. Photo source · Image reuse terms
The International Desk covers world and Asian affairs, diplomacy and conflict, with a focus on what they mean for India. Stories are checked against at least two credible sources before publication.
