Interior Minister General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa attended the conclusion of the joint Coastguard maritime exercise, ‘Vigilant Guard 14’.
The exercise aims to raise the level of readiness and improve response speed by presenting multiple scenarios, enhancing information-gathering and planning capabilities, and effectively executing joint operations, in addition to improving the efficiency of risk assessment through continuous monitoring and surveillance and integrating technological tools into the maritime security system.
The exercise was attended by Public Security chief Lieutenant General Tariq Al Hassan, and US Naval Forces Central Command Commander and Fifth Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Curt A Renshaw, along with a number of officials from the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), the National Guard and the Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry.
Gen Shaikh Rashid was briefed by the Preparation and Control Committee on the course of implementation in light of the exercise’s scenarios, and its role in enhancing decision-making capabilities, rapid response and teamwork to safeguard maritime security and safety.
‘Vigilant Guard 14’ is being implemented in accordance with the instructions of Gen Shaikh Rashid to conduct continuous, organised and progressive training based on realistic scenarios, culminating in an annual exercise that simulates real-world conditions.
The Coastguard conducted five main exercises that helped develop skills, enhance co-ordination and raise the level of operational co-operation, with ‘Vigilant Guard 14’ serving as the conclusion of the training programme for the current year.
Gen Shaikh Rashid expressed appreciation to all entities participating in the exercise, including the Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry and the US Coastguard, which are participating for the first time.
He commended the exercise for being built on realistic scenarios and clearly defined objectives, and also commended the effective field co-ordination in implementing joint security plans and operations to address maritime challenges.
He noted that such exercises contribute to improving performance, exchanging expertise and efficiently dealing with challenges related to securing territorial waters, while moving forward in enhancing strategic capabilities.
He underlined the importance of continuing training, capacity-building, reviewing procedures and enhancing co-operation, co-ordination and joint field operations.
Gen Shaikh Rashid underscored the importance of continuing to enhance maritime security and safety, wishing continued success to all efforts aimed at safeguarding the nation’s security.
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