On October 28, Basic Glen D. VanHerck, the Commander of U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), formally delivered a $2.4 million-dollar radar system to the Royal Bahamas Defence Pressure (RBDF) and the Authorities of The Bahamas, throughout an official handover ceremony on the Coral Harbour base on New Windfall. The brand new radar system is a part of a dedication of over $10 million by the U.S. authorities to assist maritime safety in The Bahamas. The brand new radar (also referred to as a Maritime Surveillance System or MSS) in Coral Harbour empowers the Authorities of The Bahamas to higher guarantee the security and safety of the huge maritime area of the Bahamian archipelago. It’s the second MSS put in with funding from NORTHCOM, the primary having develop into operational on the island of Nice Inagua in 2019.
“This maritime area consciousness functionality will dramatically increase the Royal Bahamas Defence Pressure’s potential to detect, localize, and monitor vessels within the waters surrounding their nation,” mentioned VanHerck.
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Prime Minister Davis additionally remarked that “Once we make the waters of The Bahamas safer, the U.S. border is safer as properly… In my authorities you [the United States] will discover an ally and a companion in securing our waters and borders.”
Earlier within the day, earlier than the donation, the Basic and his delegation additionally had the consideration of assembly with Prime Minister Davis, Minister of Nationwide Safety Monroe, and Commodore King for in-depth discussions on the various areas of frequent curiosity and shared values between america and The Bahamas, and alternatives to proceed strengthening the U.S.-Bahamas relationship.
Basic VanHerck was accompanied by a high-level delegation of U.S. Officers for his first official go to to The Bahamas, together with Rear Admiral Dan Cheever of USNORTHCOM, and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Usha E. Pitts. VanHerck was obtained at Coral Harbour Base by Prime Minister, the Honourable Philip E. Davis; Minister of Nationwide Safety, the Honourable Wayne Monroe, and Comodore Defence Pressure, Dr. Raymond King. Upon delivering the radar system, Basic VanHerck emphasised the distinctive U.S.-Bahamas relationship, noting “In an setting the place strategic opponents search alternatives to achieve a foothold within the Caribbean, this radar is a visual reminder of america’ dedication to our Bahamian neighbors, who’re valued and prepared companions within the protection of the Western Hemisphere.” The third and fourth methods have been proposed for Ragged Island and Nice Exuma.
