Context
The Indian Navy will host Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi, from 20–23 July 2026.
About Operation Southern Readiness 26-2
- A four-day multinational maritime security training engagement conducted under the Indian Navy-led CTF 154 in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
Key Features of Operation Southern Readiness 26.2
Command Structure
- Conducted under the aegis of the Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), which is CMF’s dedicated Training Task Force.
- India assumed command of CTF 154 in February 2026 – the first time an Indian Navy officer has led this multinational training task force.
Participating Nations
- Around 25 countries are taking part, including Australia, Canada, Thailand, the UAE, Oman, Djibouti, Seychelles, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Training Components
- Combines classroom instruction, simulation-based modules, and practical exercises.
- Key subject areas: maritime law, maritime domain awareness and information sharing, counter-narcotics operations, force protection, asymmetric threats, and maritime uncrewed systems.
- Includes hands-on training in damage control and firefighting.
Strategic Significance
- Underscores the Indian Navy’s growing role in regional capacity building through its association with the CMF.
- Reflects deepening maritime cooperation and interoperability with CMF partner nations.
What is the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF)?
- CMF is a multinational naval partnership, currently comprising 47 member nations, that works to promote security, stability, and prosperity across ~3.2 million square miles of international waters.
- Established in 2001–02, initially with 12 member nations, under the leadership of the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT).
- Headquartered in Manama, Bahrain.
- Its focus areas include counter-piracy, counter-narcotics, counter-smuggling, and upholding the International Rules-Based Order (IRBO) at sea.
- Operates through Combined Task Forces (CTFs) – e.g., CTF 150 (maritime security), CTF 151 (counter-piracy), CTF 152 (Gulf maritime security), CTF 153 (Red Sea security), and CTF 154 (training).
- India joined CMF as an associate member in 2022.
With reference to the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), consider the following statements:
I. It is a multinational naval partnership headquartered in Manama, Bahrain.
II. Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) is CMF's dedicated task force for counter-piracy operations.
III. India joined the CMF as an associate member.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) I and II only
(b) I and III only
(c) II and III only
(d) I, II and III
Answer: (b) I and III only
Explanation:
• Statement I is Correct: CMF is a multinational maritime partnership headquartered in Manama, Bahrain.
• Statement II is Incorrect: CTF 154 is CMF's dedicated Training Task Force; counter-piracy operations are handled by CTF 151.
• Statement III is Correct: India joined CMF as an associate member in 2022.