Bahrain Defence Force

Over the past 25 years, the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) has received continuous support from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, with the backing of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and Prime Minister. This unwavering support has led to significant progress across all sectors of the BDF, including the development of combat and defence systems. This includes the land forces and the Royal Bahraini Air Force, which saw the opening of the Sakhir Air Base and the introduction of Black Hawk M helicopters, along with other advanced aircraft and projects.

In 2022, the BDF launched three of the world’s most advanced military systems: the combat helicopter system (Bahrain Shield Project), the air defence system (Bahrain Spears Project), and the fighter jet system (Hamad Falcons Project). These systems have greatly enhanced the BDF’s combat readiness, accompanied by plans to train personnel and build the necessary infrastructure for these advanced capabilities.

The Royal Bahraini Navy has also achieved remarkable progress over the past 25 years. Key milestones include the launch of modern transport ships in 2015, the opening of the Al Hidd Naval Base, and the introduction of new warships in 2022. In February 2024, the Khalid bin Ali ship was commissioned, further strengthening the Navy’s operational capabilities.

The BDF places a strong emphasis on military research and development, including the design and production of military vehicles. One of the most notable projects is the Faisal armoured vehicle, introduced at the Bahrain International Defence Exhibition and Conference in 2019. This multi-purpose armoured vehicle was designed and assembled by the Royal Bahraini Technical Maintenance Unit using national expertise and international standards. In 2017, the BDF developed the first modified military vehicle, Dheeb, featuring enhanced armour and weaponry, capable of speeds up to 140 km/h with a 4x4 drivetrain.

In line with its commitment to fostering military cooperation, the BDF has participated in numerous joint exercises with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and international allies. These include joint Gulf and international exercises, as well as bilateral exercises with friend nations.

The BDF has also contributed to international efforts, such as participating in Operation Decisive Storm and Operation Restoring Hope in Yemen in 2015, as well as the Continuous Promise Campaign in Haiti. The BDF has played a vital role in combating terrorism, addressing piracy in the Indian Ocean, and supporting United Nations-led monitoring operations. Additionally, it has contributed to securing global oil supplies and preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction, while continually working toward international stability and peace.

The BDF has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, including supporting Nepal following the devastating earthquake in 2015, and participating in Operation Sophia to aid refugees in the Mediterranean near Libya, in cooperation with the British Navy. In 2021, the BDF assisted in the safe evacuation of people from Afghanistan alongside international partners.

Most recently, the BDF provided humanitarian aid to Turkey following the 2023 earthquake, dispatching the "Sawaed Al Ghaith" (arms of aid) search and rescue team and medical personnel as part of Operation Gallant Knight 2, working within the UAE’s field hospital to support survivors and aid in recovery efforts.

The Bahrain Defence Force remains steadfast in its commitment to defending the nation’s borders, protecting its sovereignty, and supporting the Kingdom’s comprehensive development across all sectors.