Coral Harbour Base, 26 APR. 16 (RBDF): In its ongoing efforts towards becoming a self-
sufficient organization, the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), with its regional partners,
U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and U.S. Special Operations Command North
(SOCNORTH) are working together to execute Exercise MARLIN SHIELD the first two weeks
in May. During the exercise, areas in and around Nassau, Bahamas will experience an increased
military presence, particularly in the air and sea.
The objective of this exercise is for the RBDF and the U.S. Northern Command
(USNORTHCOM) to actively practice interoperability and bilateral operations through maritime
and land-based training. Additionally, this engagement is designed to enhance the Defence
Force’s capabilities for an effective response to illegal activities or humanitarian assistance that
may be required within the maritime domain of The Bahamas.
Commander Defence Force (Acting) Captain Tellis Bethel stated that “the MARLIN SHIELD
training exercise complements the decentralization strategy of the RBDF, and will ensure that the
Defence Force continues to build operational capacity through regional partner engagements.”
The Minister of National Security, the Hon Dr. Bernard Nottage noted that “the security
challenges that confront the Bahamas are challenges that confront much of the Caribbean
region.” And that, “these threats can be better resolved through capacity building of military and
Law enforcement agencies with assistance from partners such as the United States, which has
been a principal proponent for capacity building among small island states throughout the
region.”
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force remains committed to “Guarding Our Heritage”
(For further information contact the Royal Bahamas Defence Force Public Relations Department)
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“Guard Our Heritage”
