Kochi: Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 has officially started at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, Kerala. The four-day multinational maritime security training programme is being led by the Indian Navy in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). The exercise has brought together participants from 26 countries to improve maritime security, professional cooperation, and operational readiness. According to the official Press Information Bureau (PIB), this is the first time India is hosting Operation Southern Readiness, making it a significant milestone in regional naval collaboration.
What is Operation Southern Readiness 26-2
Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 is a multinational maritime security training engagement hosted by the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. The exercise began on 20 July 2026 and will continue for four days. It is conducted under the Indian Navy-led Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) in partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).
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Participation from 26 Countries
The exercise has gathered:
- 254 participants
- Representatives from 26 countries
- 74 facilitators
- Experts from four international organisations
- Several Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)
This wide international participation makes the exercise one of the important multinational maritime training engagements hosted by India.
Role of Combined Task Force 154 in Operation Southern Readiness 26-2
Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) is the dedicated training task force of the Combined Maritime Forces. The task force is currently commanded by the Indian Navy and focuses on improving training standards, operational coordination, and professional readiness among partner nations through multinational exercises.
Opening Ceremony Highlights
The opening ceremony featured senior naval leaders from India and the Combined Maritime Forces. Key addresses were delivered by:
- Commodore Milind M. Mokashi, Commander CTF 154
- Commodore Dan Thomas, Deputy Commander, Combined Maritime Forces
- Rear Admiral Deepak Singhal, Chief Staff Officer (Training), Headquarters Southern Naval Command
The speakers highlighted the importance of professional learning, international cooperation, and shared maritime security responsibilities.
Training Sessions and Practical Exercises
The first day focused on Ship Management and Special Training. Participants attended expert-led sessions and practical demonstrations covering:
- Maritime security threats in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean
- Ship handling
- Navigation
- Astro navigation
- Maritime distress communication systems
- Damage control
- Firefighting
The practical training was conducted using the Indian Navy’s advanced simulators and training infrastructure.
Training to Continue Over the Next Three Days
During the remaining days, participants will take part in:
- Professional classroom sessions
- Simulator-based training
- Practical maritime exercises
- Knowledge-sharing workshops
- Operational coordination activities
These sessions are designed to improve maritime preparedness and strengthen cooperation among participating nations.
Why is Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 Important?
This is the first-ever Operation Southern Readiness hosted in India.
The programme aims to strengthen cooperation among partner navies, improve interoperability, build professional skills, and enhance regional maritime security. It also reflects the growing partnership between the Indian Navy and the Combined Maritime Forces.
India Strengthens Its Role in Regional Maritime Security
According to the Indian Navy, Operation Southern Readiness 26-2 demonstrates India’s growing commitment to regional maritime safety.
The exercise also reinforces India’s position as a preferred security and training partner in the Indian Ocean Region by promoting collective security, professional exchanges, and stronger naval partnerships.
