Operation Southern Readiness 26-2

Why in News?

The Indian Navy will host Operation Southern Readiness 26-2, a multinational maritime security training exercise, at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi, from 20 to 23 July 2026. The four-day engagement will be conducted in collaboration with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) under Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, the CMF’s dedicated training task force.

The exercise aims to strengthen maritime cooperation, improve operational interoperability, and enhance the professional skills of naval personnel from partner countries. It also reflects India’s growing role in promoting maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

What are the Combined Maritime Forces and CTF 154?

The Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) is a multinational naval partnership that promotes maritime security and stability across key international sea lanes.

Role of CTF 154

• Dedicated training task force of the CMF.
• Conducts professional military education and capacity building.
• Improves interoperability among partner navies.
• Promotes coordinated maritime operations.

Notably, the Indian Navy assumed command of CTF 154 in February 2026, with Commodore Milind M. Mokashi becoming the first Indian officer to lead a CMF task force.

Participating Countries and Training Modules

The exercise will bring together personnel from 25–47 CMF partner nations, including:

• Australia
• Canada
• Japan
• United States
• United Kingdom
• United Arab Emirates
• Oman
• Thailand
• Djibouti
• Seychelles

Training Areas

• Maritime law
• Maritime domain awareness
• Counter-narcotics operations
• Maritime uncrewed systems
• Damage control and firefighting
• Survival at sea
• Boarding procedures

Training will include classroom sessions, simulator-based learning, and practical exercises aboard an Indian Naval ship.

Significance of the Exercise

Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 enhances cooperation among partner navies and strengthens collective maritime security. It also showcases India’s leadership in multinational naval training and supports a secure, rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific.

Important Facts for Exams

• Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 will be held from 20–23 July 2026.
• It will be hosted at the Southern Naval Command, Kochi.
• The exercise is organised by the Indian Navy and the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
• CTF 154 is the CMF’s dedicated training task force.
• The Southern Naval Command is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, and serves as the Indian Navy’s premier training command.
• The Indian Navy assumed command of CTF 154 in February 2026.
• Commodore Milind M. Mokashi is the first Indian officer to command a CMF task force.
• Key training topics include:
  • Maritime law
  • Maritime domain awareness
  • Counter-narcotics operations
  • Maritime uncrewed systems