Manama: Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), met with senior officers, including Lieutenant General Theyab bin Saqr Al Nuaimi, Chief of Staff, to review the final phase of the National Shield 2026 drill. The exercise, conducted by the BDF in collaboration with the National Guard and the Ministry of Interior, is part of ongoing efforts to bolster combat readiness and operational preparedness.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Commander-in-Chief received a briefing on the exercise, which was executed with high professionalism, coordination, and advanced planning. Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed praised the effectiveness of command and control procedures, leadership performance, and operational execution, while also reviewing key aspects of the BDF's ongoing development and modernisation programmes.
Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed stressed that the Bahrain Defence Force consistently achieves high levels of efficiency and readiness. This is supported by the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and Prime Minister, through the implementation of modern training systems and advanced preparation plans.
The Commander-in-Chief highlighted the significance of the National Shield 2026 drill as a leading platform for enhancing combat capabilities, unifying operational concepts, and exchanging expertise among participating forces. He underscored the necessity of realistic field training for maintaining readiness and addressing potential threats.
Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed reiterated the importance of continued joint training, vigilance, and preparedness to defend the nation and safeguard its achievements. He concluded by wishing all participants success in future joint exercises and in performing their duties under all circumstances.