Manama: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, sent a cable of thanks to Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), on the occasion of the anniversary of the BDF's establishment.
According to Bahrain News Agency, His Majesty the King extended sincere greetings and best wishes for continued health and prosperity to the Commander-in-Chief, while expressing appreciation for the efforts of the Bahrain Defence Force. His Majesty highlighted that the BDF has developed into a modern, advanced military institution, comparable to the world's leading armed forces in terms of armament, training, and operational readiness. He commended its ability to keep pace with developments in the military field and emphasised that, under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, it has become a model institution, equipped with advanced military and administrative capabilities and staffed by highly skilled personnel, fully prepared to safeguard national security and protect the Kingdom's achievements.
His Majesty further underscored that the strength of the BDF lies in its devoted and highly trained personnel, supported by advanced defence and management systems, and operating in accordance with the highest standards of combat readiness. He also emphasised the BDF's commitment to defending the Kingdom, standing in solidarity with brotherly nations, and contributing alongside allies to international peacekeeping and security efforts.
In reply, the Commander-in-Chief sent a cable of thanks to His Majesty the King, expressing profound pride and gratitude and describing HM the King's cable on the occasion of the BDF's establishment as a great honour and a source of motivation for the Bahrain Defence Force's continued dedication to serving the Kingdom. The Commander-in-Chief noted that the BDF's growth, development, and attainment of standards comparable to the most established global armed forces would not have been possible without His Majesty's visionary leadership and steadfast support. He also highlighted the role of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and Prime Minister, whose close follow-up and encouragement have been instrumental in building a modern, capable military that reflects His Majesty's aspirations.
The Commander-in-Chief pledged that the BDF would uphold its national identity, professional military values, and readiness with advanced defence systems. He emphasised the BDF's ongoing preparedness to support regional security, assist allied countries, and contribute to international peace and stability. He added that, guided by His Majesty's directives and mindful of regional challenges, the BDF remains at the highest levels of readiness and vigilance, coordinating fully with national security and civil institutions to ensure the Kingdom's land, airspace, and territorial waters are protected under His Majesty's leadership.