Saudi Arabia, Bahrain: Saudi Arabian and Bahraini naval forces began a bilateral maritime exercise in Bahrain, the Saudi Defense Ministry announced on Sunday.

The “Bridge 23” drill includes forces from the Royal Saudi Navy, represented by the Eastern Fleet, and the Royal Bahraini Navy. It was launched in the presence of Royal Bahraini Navy Cmdr. Rear Adm. Mohammed Al-Assam and military attache at the Saudi Embassy to Bahrain Brig. Gen. Fahad Al-Thunayan, as well as a number of senior officers taking part in the exercise.

The director of the exercise, Col. Ahmed Al-Osaimi, said that “Bridge 23” aims to raise combat readiness, standardize tactical concepts and aid in the implementation of joint operations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

He added that the exercise will also cover naval battles, command and control, and will raise the efficiency of communication procedures in both navies.

Al-Osaimi said that the maneuvers are an extension of the “Bridge” series of exercises carried out periodically between the two countries to enhance security cooperation.