Task Force 152 Gulf Exercise

Vessels of multiple nations recently joined forces to complete a two day maritime security training exercise in the Gulf. Exercise Falcon Warrior 12-05 was the first of many such events lined up by CTF 152 following its recent relocation to Bahrain.

Participants from Bahrain, Kuwait, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States took part in Falcon Warrior which provided instruction in specialist boarding and searching techniques. Lieutenant Patrick Bryant from the US Navy stated: “such training is essential to ensure that nations fine tune their continued capability in this essential area this contributing to promoting a safe maritime environment”.

Throughout the course of the exercise a variety of events took place including cross-decking of personnel and live boarding and searching scenarios. The US and UK were responsible for the training delivery phase of Falcon Warrior but also benefited from this multi-national event, commenting that they were tremendously impressed with all participants professionalism and camaraderie.

Captain Stephen Evans, US Navy, the Commander of Combined Task Force 152 was pleased with the results of the exercise, saying “Exercise Falcon Warrior 12-05 provided a platform for the exercising of Vessel Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) teams in a safe and non pressurised environment. It also enabled UK and US assets operating in the region to experience working alongside their hosts and better understand the waters they sail in. All through the exercise a great deal of information and goodwill was exchanged, better preparing each and every person involved to execute their respective missions. We are looking forward to further joint exercises in coming months”.

Article courtesy of Combined Maritime Forces.