The Kenya Navy has launched a four-day multinational maritime exercise in Mombasa, training alongside forces from the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Australia under Operation Southern Readiness 2026 (K-OSR 26). The event, which began on January 26 at the Bandari Maritime Academy, marks the first time Kenya has hosted the exercise.

Organised jointly by the Kenya Navy and Combined Task Force 154 (CTF 154), K-OSR 26 aims to enhance operational readiness, improve interoperability, and strengthen coordinated responses to maritime threats such as piracy, illicit trafficking, and environmental hazards.

Brigadier William Kiprotich and Commodore Andrea Bielli highlighted the importance of multinational cooperation, shared values, and regional security. The exercise also supports Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda by developing skilled maritime personnel and fostering international collaboration.