Indian Navy Assumes First-Ever Command of CTF 154

A Major Defence Current Affairs Update for Competitive Exams (2026)

By Home Academy

In a landmark achievement for India’s maritime diplomacy and defence leadership, the Indian Navy has assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154 for the first time. This significant development strengthens India’s image as a “Preferred Security Partner” in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and highlights its expanding global naval footprint.

---

Event Overview

On 11 February 2026, at the headquarters of Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in Manama, Bahrain, the Indian Navy officially took command of CTF 154.

The ceremony was presided over by VAdm Curt A Renshaw, Commander of:

Combined Maritime Forces

US Naval Forces Central Command (US NAVCENT)
United States Fifth Fleet

Cmde Milind M. Mokashi, Shaurya Chakra, of the Indian Navy assumed charge from the outgoing Italian Navy Commander.
VAdm Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (DCNS), Indian Navy, was also present.

---

What is CTF 154?

CTF 154 (Combined Task Force 154) is a multinational training task force established in May 2023 under the framework of CMF.

It focuses exclusively on:

Maritime training

Capacity building
Strengthening operational readiness of member nations

CTF 154 operates in coordination with 47 member nations of CMF.

---

Five Core Training Pillars of CTF 154

For exam purposes, remember these five pillars:

1. Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA)

2. Law of the Sea

3. Maritime Interdiction Operations

4. Maritime Rescue and Assistance

5. Leadership Development

These pillars enhance cooperative security and maritime governance in the Middle East and adjoining regions.

---

Major Exercises & Training Programs

CTF 154 conducts:

Maritime Security Enhancement Training (MSET)

Compass Rose Exercise
Northern Readiness Exercise
Southern Readiness Exercise

These exercises focus on countering:

Illegal trafficking

Piracy
Irregular migration
Maritime terrorism

---

Other Task Forces under CMF (Very Important for Exams)

CTF 154 operates alongside four other task forces:

CTF 150 – Maritime Security Operations

CTF 151 – Counter-Piracy Operations
CTF 152 – Maritime Security in Arabian Gulf
CTF 153 – Maritime Security in Red Sea

This structure is frequently asked in defence and international relations sections of exams.

---

Why This is Important for India?

This development signifies:

India’s rising strategic influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
Growing trust among 47 CMF member nations.
Recognition of Indian Navy’s professional excellence and operational capability.
Strengthening India’s role in multinational maritime diplomacy.

It also aligns with India’s broader vision of:

SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)

Indo-Pacific maritime cooperation
Defence diplomacy and capacity building

---

Exam-Oriented Important Points

Event Date: 11 February 2026
Location: CMF Headquarters, Manama, Bahrain
Established: May 2023
Total CMF Members: 47 Nations
Commander from India: Cmde Milind M. Mokashi
Presiding Officer: VAdm Curt A Renshaw

First time India assumed command of CTF 154.

---

Expected Questions for 2026 Exams

Q1. CTF 154 functions under which multinational maritime partnership?
Answer: Combined Maritime Forces.

Q2. CTF 154 was established in which year?
Answer: 2023.

Q3. CMF headquarters is located in which country?
Answer: Bahrain.

Q4. CTF 151 deals with which area?
Answer: Counter-Piracy.

---

Strategic Significance

India’s command of CTF 154 reflects:

Operational leadership in multinational frameworks.
Enhanced defence partnerships with Western and Gulf nations.
Expansion of India’s maritime diplomacy footprint beyond the Indian Ocean.

This milestone reinforces India’s position as a responsible maritime power committed to peace, prosperity, and security in global waters.

The assumption of command of CTF 154 by the Indian Navy marks a historic step in India’s maritime journey. It is not merely a ceremonial responsibility but a strategic advancement that strengthens India’s leadership in global maritime security.

For defence aspirants and civil services candidates, this development must be remembered in connection with:

CMF structure
Indian Ocean maritime strategy
India’s growing global defence role
Multinational naval cooperation

Stay updated with Home Academy for exam-focused defence current affairs.