Operation Southern Readiness 2026 (K-OSR 26) has officially commenced at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa County.
The four-day exercise was inaugurated on Monday by the Commander of Kenya Navy Base (KNB) Mtongwe, Brigadier William Kiprotich.
Jointly organized by Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154) and the Kenya Navy, the exercise brings together participants from Combined Maritime Forces member states, partner nations, as well as Kenyan maritime security institutions and agencies.
Its primary objective is to enhance cooperation and promote a unified approach to maritime security among participating countries and agencies.
Brigadier Kiprotich emphasized the shared responsibility of nations in addressing maritime security challenges, noting that such threats transcend national borders.
“We gather here under the Combined Maritime Forces motto, ‘Ready Together.’ This motto captures our mission over the next four days. No single nation can secure the seas alone. Threats such as piracy, illicit trafficking, and environmental hazards are transnational in nature and require a coordinated, operationally focused response,” he said.
Commander of CTF 154, Commodore Andrea Bielli, praised the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the Kenya Navy, and the Bandari Maritime Academy for hosting the exercise, highlighting its strategic importance.
“I commend the KDF, Kenya Navy, and Bandari Maritime Academy for hosting this important exercise. Your leadership and vision continue to inspire regional and international partners. As we undertake these drills and discussions, our efforts go beyond tactical manoeuvres; they are about building resilience, fostering mutual respect, and ensuring future generations inherit secure and prosperous seas,” Commodore Bielli said.
This marks the first time Operation Southern Readiness has been hosted in Kenya.
The exercise represents a significant milestone in the country’s defence and maritime security framework, reaffirming the Kenya Navy’s commitment to safeguarding national interests while promoting peace and stability across the Western Indian Ocean.
