ShareKUWAIT: Kuwait Coast Guard is working on refurbishing and modernizing its fleet, Kuwait News Agency reported Thursday. Commodore Sheikh Mubarak Ali Al-Sabah, Director General of Kuwait’s Coast Guard, said a budget of KD 45 million has been allocated for this purpose, with 11 boats currently being sent to Abu Dhabi for major overhauls, including the replacement of engines and other equipment. This initiative aims to enhance the operational readiness and efficiency of the Coast Guard in carrying out its duties.
As part of its efforts to further secure Kuwait’s waters, the Coast Guard will soon integrate “maritime drones” into its fleet. These drones are set to begin operations during Ramadan in 2025 and will be active 24/7 for two years. Equipped with live-streaming cameras, warning systems, and tracking technology, the drones will significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor and safeguard Kuwait’s waters from potential security threats.
Sheikh Mubarak also announced that the Coast Guard is preparing for a comprehensive shift towards digital operations. By January 1, 2025, the Coast Guard will fully transition to electronic systems for managing licenses and documentation, eliminating paper-based processes. This transition will include maritime licenses for boats, vessels, and maritime driving, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Furthermore, Sheikh Mubarak emphasized the importance of enhancing the training and readiness of Coast Guard personnel. The administration has been conducting weekly live-fire exercises in Kuwait’s territorial waters to ensure that its forces are well-prepared for any security challenges they may face. Additionally, the Coast Guard is updating its training programs, incorporating new technologies such as artificial intelligence, and implementing a more robust training system to prepare future leaders.
Sheikh Mubarak also underscored the organization’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the role of women in the security of Kuwait’s territorial waters. He emphasized that the Coast Guard recognizes women as key contributors to its mission, and they are actively involved in critical roles, both in military and civilian capacities, to protect the nation’s maritime borders.
He pointed out that women have been instrumental in the management of several major projects within the Coast Guard, including the new radar system designed to enhance Kuwait’s maritime security. One such project is being led by Farah Ibrahim, who is overseeing the implementation of the radar system, which will significantly improve the monitoring and security capabilities of Kuwait’s territorial waters. Notably, 40 percent of the team involved in this critical project comprises women, highlighting the Coast Guard’s dedication to empowering women in both military and civilian roles.
The radar system, which is expected to be fully operational within 16 months, aims to bolster efforts to protect Kuwait’s waters from illegal activities such as smuggling and unauthorized intrusions. The system will involve the construction of 12 new towers, complete with radar, cameras, communication devices, and new electronic navigation systems, marking a major advancement in the Coast Guard’s technological capabilities. Additionally, the project will include maintenance and training over the next 10 years, ensuring its long-term sustainability and effectiveness.
Sheikh Mubarak also took the opportunity to commend the work of the General Department of Anti-Drug Control, with whom the Coast Guard has been working closely to combat the illegal trafficking of drugs into Kuwait. He explained that the Coast Guard has developed comprehensive plans and strategies to deal with security threats, and part of this includes the reorganization of its personnel to ensure a more effective response to illegal activities in Kuwait’s waters.
