The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) announced today the conclusion of a successful working visit to Grand Bahama by Deputy Commander Defence Force, Captain Carlon Bethell. From 29 January to 3 February 2026, Captain Bethel conducted operational reviews and strategic site assessments alongside Commander Origin Deleveaux, Commanding Officer of NORTHERN COMMAND.
The visit commenced with Captain Bethel and Commander Deleveaux attending the “Arms-InPrayer” community service, reinforcing the bond between the RBDF and the Grand Bahama community.
The visit underscored the RBDF’s commitment to enhancing its operational effectiveness and community partnerships in the Northern Bahamas. A key highlight was a productive meeting between the RBDF leadership and the management of the Freeport Harbour Company.
Discussions focused on aligning future harbour development plans with the RBDF’s mission to safeguard Bahamian waters, exploring opportunities to strengthen maritime operations and logistical support from the key port facility.
Captain Bethell reiterated on behalf of Commander Defence Force Commodore Floyd Moxey that “Our engagement in Grand Bahama is multifaceted, encompassing internal readiness and vital external partnerships,”. “The dialogue with Freeport Harbour is a forward-looking step to ensure port development considers and supports our national security mandate, ensuring the RBDF can operate effectively now and in the future.”
The itinerary also included an inspection of NORTHERN COMMAND headquarters, a review of the proposed site for a modern communications and radar hub building in Eight Mile Rock, and assessments of potential locations for a rapid response maritime unit and a Small Boat station. Commander Deleveaux emphasized the visit’s importance, noting, “These assessments are crucial for our strategic planning. Identifying and developing the right infrastructure is essential for the NORTHERN COMMAND to fulfill its role in protecting our maritime domain and responding swiftly to any contingencies.
The Royal Bahamas Defence Force under Commodore Moxey’s leadership, is optimizing excellence by bridging generations and embracing modernization. As such, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of The Bahamas with NORTHERN COMMAND playing a pivotal role.
