The Sri Lankan Navy assumed command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154 during a change-of-command ceremony on 26 January. Commodore KMH Bettage of the Sri Lankan Navy succeeded Commodore Haytham Khalil of the Egyptian Navy, marking Sri Lanka’s first command of a Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) task force since joining the partnership in November 2023.
During his tenure, Commodore Khalil spearheaded critical advancements in maritime security training. Under his leadership, CTF 154 launched monthly Maritime Security Enhancement Training sessions focusing on vital topics such as navigation and safety at sea, firefighting, public affairs, and pollution crisis management. These efforts were complemented by significant engagements with key partners and collaborative work with organisations like the European Union Naval Force.
“Our collective efforts have strengthened maritime security and fostered cooperation,” said Khalil during the ceremony. “Your tireless work has yielded remarkable results, enhanced monthly training, and elevated our readiness and operation. I am honoured to have led such a talented and cohesive team.”
CTF 154, established in May 2023, conducts multinational maritime training across the Middle East. By organising events around five core areas—maritime awareness, maritime law, maritime interdiction, maritime rescue and assistance, and leadership development—the task force enables CMF partner nations to enhance their capabilities. These tailored training opportunities, which range from basic to advanced levels, cater to nations without the need for deploying ships or aircraft, focusing instead on land-based courses.
The core staff of CTF 154 comprises personnel from Canada, Egypt, Jordan, Seychelles, Türkiye, and the United States, reflecting the task force’s multinational collaboration. The Sri Lankan Navy’s command marks a new chapter for the task force, with Commodore Bettage expressing his commitment to strengthening partnerships.
“I believe training and collaboration are essential to maritime commerce and security,” Bettage stated. “By fostering partnerships between nations and industries, we can address threats, optimise operations, and protect vital trade routes together. These efforts strengthen the global maritime industry and support economic growth.”
CTF 154 is one of five operational task forces under CMF, the largest multinational naval partnership in the world, comprising 46 member nations. Headquartered in Bahrain alongside U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet, CMF oversees approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters. Other task forces under CMF include CTF 150 (maritime security in the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean), CTF 151 (counter-piracy), CTF 152 (maritime security in the Arabian Gulf), and CTF 153 (security in the Red Sea).
