New CENTCOM Commander visits US Navy Unmanned Systems Hub

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Staff Reporter

The new commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) visited US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain to see firsthand how the Navy is integrating unmanned systems and artificial intelligence into fleet operations in the Middle East, according to Defence Visual Information Distribution Service.

During his first visit to Bahrain since assuming command of CENTCOM on April 1, US Army Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla met with Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT), US 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces.

Kurilla was also briefed by staff from NAVCENT’s Task Force 59 on various advanced unmanned surface vessels, aerial platforms, and artificial intelligence systems.

NAVCENT established Task Force 59 in September 2021. Since its launch, it has introduced a suite of new unmanned systems based at operational hubs in Bahrain and Aqaba, Jordan.

The task force partners with industry and international forces for operational evaluation and employment. Task Force 59 recently conducted the largest unmanned maritime training event in the world. More than 80 unmanned systems from 10 nations participated in International Maritime Exercise 2022 in February.

The Middle East region’s unique geography, climate, and strategic importance offer an ideal environment for unmanned innovation. The area hosts the world’s largest standing maritime partnership and includes the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean.

Gen. Kurilla assumed command of CENTCOM on April 1, 2022. Kurilla previously commanded the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, N.C. and served as the CENTCOM chief of staff from August 2018 to September 2019.

The event, officiated by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, brought together senior defense leaders from around the world, CENTCOM’s component commanders, elected officials and other distinguished visitors.

“US Central Command will continue to thrive under the steadfast leadership of General Kurilla during a critical time in a region that remains dangerous and complex,” said Austin, who himself commanded CENTCOM from March 2013 to April 2016.

“I’m honoured to serve alongside the soldiers, sailors, airmen, guardians, marines, coast guardsmen and civilians of this command,” said Kurilla.