The Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defense Force (BDF), Field Marshal Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, witnessed the conclusion of “Dawn of Storms23” Naval Tactical Drill implemented by the Royal Bahrain Navy Force (RBNF) with the participation of BDF, National Guard and Interior Ministry’s Coast Guard units.

Upon arrival, the BDF Commander-in-Chief was greeted by Chief-of-Staff General Dhiyab bin Saqr Al Nuaimi, Royal Bahrain Navy Force (RBNF) Commander, Naval Major-General Mohammed Yousef Al-Asam, and senior officers, Bahrain News Agency (BNA) reported.

The RBNF Commander delivered a welcoming speech on this occasion, in which he expressed utmost gratitude and appreciation to the BDF Commander-in-Chief for patronizing the conclusion of the drill and his continuous attention to the RBNF boosting its capabilities and combat and training efficiency.

The Commander in-Chief was briefed about the stages of the drill and its objectives. On this occasion, the top commander conveyed the greetings and appreciation of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa the Supreme Commander. He congratulated all the participants from the BDF, the National Guard and the Interior Ministry and thanked the supervisors who have planned, overseen and managed the drill in the ideal manner.

He also explained that the lessons learnt from these drills should be linked with the factual reality to enable the RBNF men in the efficient performance of their sanctimonious duty under all circumstances. He pointed out that the Royal Bahraini Naval Force is first and foremost one of the most advanced forces in the defense duties along with the ground and air forces.

He further stressed the importance of administrative and combat readiness to confront any threats or dangers. He cited the tremendous patriotic undertaken by the fathers and forefathers who fought to defend this part of the Arab and Muslim region and preserved its Arab identify and succeeded in their battles in the face of challenges when most of these confrontations and battles took place at sea alongside with battles and confrontations were waged on land. They mostly fought before land, far from coasts and regional waters.

Director of the BDF Command Major-General Hassan Mohammed Saad, Assistant Chief-of-Staff Major General Sheikh Ali bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Public Security Chief Major General Tariq Hassan Al Hasan, National Guard Director of Staff Major General Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Saud Al Khalifa, and senior officers were also  present. 

Meanwhile, the BDF Commander-in-Chief received Thursday the Commander of US Central Command (USCENTCOM) General Kenneth F. McKenzie and his accompanying delegation, and wished him success in the duties of his new post. 

He praised the Bahrain-US strong and lasting relations in many fields especially the military and defense cooperation.

The BDF Chief-of-Staff General Dhiyab bin Saqer Al Nuaimi and senior officers were also present.