US Navy,
MANAMA, Bahrain: Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead visited Bahrain April 13-15 to meet with U.S. and coalition leaders as well as Sailors currently deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO).
Roughead is touring the Middle East to meet with regional naval leaders in an effort to increase dialogue and cooperation and to ensure safety, security and prosperity within the region.
“This visit allows me to continue the dialogue with leadership here, how they see things and how we can work more closely together,” said Roughead. “I really believe that by working together and working in a cooperative way we can ensure the safety and security of this very important part of the world.”
During his visit to Bahrain, Roughead held talks with Royal Bahrain Navy Brig. Gen. Adbdulla Al Mansoori, Commander, Royal Bahrain naval forces and toured RBNS Al Manama (FPBGH 50).
Roughead praised Bahrain's contribution to Combined Maritime Forces and their leadership of Combined Task Force (CTF) 152. The Royal Bahrain navy assumed command of CTF 152 March 4, marking the first time coalition forces have been commanded by a Gulf nation.
Established in March 2004, CTF 152 is responsible for Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the Central and South Arabian Gulf.
“Bahrain is leading from the front,” said Roughead. “Their assumption of that leadership role, I believe will be looked back on when history is written, as a significant development in the security of this region. I am extremely pleased, grateful and proud of the fact that the Bahraini Navy has stepped up. Brig. Gen. Mansoori is doing a superb job of leading that task force.”
The CNO also met with U.S. commanders and Sailors who operate within the 5th Fleet AOO, including those stationed aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75).
“By being able to come out and meet with Sailors, I get a better sense of what I need to do in Washington to lead the Navy and put in place not just the things that our Navy needs today, but the things that we're going to need for the future,” he said. “The young men and women who wear our Navy's uniform in this part of the world have the best insight into what that future looks like.”
After departing Bahrain, Roughead will meet with other regional leaders within the Middle East and Horn of Africa before returning to Washington D.C.
