Prime Minister Davis Lauds the Royal Bahamas Defence Force at Security Council Divisions 2026

PHOTO CAPTION
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis takes part in the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Security Council Divisions 2026, on April 15, 2026, at HMBS Coral Harbour. Among those present were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Fred Mitchell; Minister of National Security the Hon. Wayne Munroe; and Minister of Economic Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis. (BIS Photos/Eric Rose. Drone Photography Courtesy of Eric Rose)

NASSAU, The Bahamas - During the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) Security Council Divisions 2026, on April 15, 2026, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis told those in attendance that, as they stood there in their uniforms, their "discipline and bearing" were on full display.

"You carry the values and traditions that have defined this organization since its founding," he said at the event held at the HMBS Coral Harbour.

"You are a people's force," Prime Minister Davis added. "You are defined by defence, yes, but also by self-determination and by your contribution to building this nation.

"That identity is most evident in your impact beyond the uniform."

Among those present were Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation the Hon. Chester Cooper; Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Fred Mitchell; Minister of National Security the Hon. Wayne Munroe; and Minister of Economic Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Halkitis.

Prime Minister Davis stated that he was "especially encouraged" to see the participation of the National Youth Guard, who he called "the next generation of Bahamians who have stepped forward to serve".

"I commend this group for their willingness to step up when others might have stepped back," he said.

"The National Youth Guard prepares our young people to assist in times of need and equips them with skills that will serve them long after they leave the programme," Prime Minister Davis added. "Their presence here today is clear evidence of the Force's impact on our nation's future."

He pointed out that the reach of the RBDF extended far beyond maritime operations.

"Through your community outreach, you continue to shape and inspire the next generation," Prime Minister Davis noted. "You are passing on the values of service, national pride, and responsibility."

He added: "I am pleased to acknowledge the continued growth of the Force. In February, you welcomed New Entry sixty-three and Women Entry thirty-two, bringing one hundred twenty young Bahamians into the ranks. These are individuals who answered the call to serve their country.

"My administration remains committed to recruitment that is both sustained and strategic, including the expansion of both active and reserve components."

Prime Minister Davis said that he acknowledged the work of the Minister of National Security in identifying the Rangers Program and the National Youth Guard as feeder pathways into the Defence Force, to "ensure continuity and opportunity for our young people".

"As I shared at the anniversary service, this administration is committed to ensuring that the Defence Force remains well-equipped and well-supported," he said.

Prime Minister Davis added: "The Force is only as strong as its people, and that is why we are taking tangible steps to support those who serve. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force is currently in the final phase of a Public Private Agreement for the development of dedicated housing barracks for marines, the first of its kind for this organization.

"This is about improving the welfare and living conditions of our officers and marines. Because strong institutions are built by supporting the people within them."

Prime Minister Davis noted that, as a military organization, the work that the RBDF did demanded sacrifice and courage.

"It requires coordination, sustained investment, and proper resources," he said. "The government has made deliberate investments to strengthen the Force, including the Sandy Bottom Project, which transformed operational capabilities. Enhanced training and modern vessels have ensured that the Force is better equipped to safeguard over 100,000 square miles of ocean."

Prime Minister Davis added: "We have recruited 570 new Defence Force marines since 2021, significantly strengthening our maritime security capacity. This represents one of the largest expansions of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force in recent history. These new marines are now patrolling our waters, protecting our borders, and helping us repatriate a record number of migrants - more than any administration in Bahamian history.

"We have also invested $100 million in strengthening the RBDF fleet, including the addition of fast patrol boats, and installed coastal radar systems to ensure our officers are properly equipped to address immigration and poaching challenges."

Prime Minister Davis pointed out that, on that day, they also paused to recognize excellence within their ranks.

"We will witness several officers receive their warrants. Each warrant bears my signature as Chairman of the National Security Council. That signature carries the trust and confidence placed in you as you continue to serve with integrity," he said.

Prime Minister Davis added: "We are proud of your accomplishments and grateful for your commitment to service. I also want to acknowledge the marines and officers deployed overseas. You continue to represent us with distinction and we are proud of your service.

"I extend my gratitude for your sacrifices, and I thank your families whose support makes your service possible."

Prime Minister Davis stated that the display that day was a reminder of "who we are and what we must continue to be".

"The Royal Bahamas Defence Force is an institution at the centre of our national security and our national development," he said. "What began as a visionary idea has become indispensable."

"On behalf of the people of the Bahamas, we thank you for your service," Prime Minister Davis added. "May the Almighty God continue to bless the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, its marines, officers and their families. And may He continue to bless this nation as we build a stronger and more secure Bahamas."