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United States–Bahrain Military Partnership

Bahrain may be small, but its military partnership with the U.S. is critical—it hosts the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, which oversees operations in the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Arabian Sea. As a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA), Bahrain plays a key role in maritime security, countering Iranian threats, and coordinating naval exercises. Its partnership with the U.S. remains strong, despite domestic political challenges and growing Chinese and Russian interest in the region.

History and Strategic Context

  • Bahrain gained independence from Britain in 1971 and established formal defense ties with the U.S.

  • The U.S.-Bahrain Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) of 1991 granted U.S. military basing rights in Bahrain.

  • Bahrain became a key U.S. partner in counterterrorism operations, supporting coalition efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

  • The 2002 MNNA designation expanded U.S. military aid, arms sales, and joint training programs.

  • Bahrain joined the Abraham Accords (2020), normalizing ties with Israel, with U.S. backing.

  • Increased joint maritime security patrols and missile defense cooperation amid rising Iranian threats.

Key Defense Agreements and Initiatives

  • U.S.-Bahrain Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) (1991, Renewed 2017): Grants the U.S. military permanent access to Bahraini bases. Strengthens joint counterterrorism and naval security coordination.
  • Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) Status (2002): Provides Bahrain with priority access to U.S. military financing, arms sales, and defense cooperation.
  • Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and Defense Assistance: Bahrain has purchased billions in U.S. military equipment.
  • Joint Military Exercises and Training: International Maritime Exercise (IMX): Largest multinational naval drills in the Middle East, hosted by Bahrain; Eagle Resolve: U.S.-Bahrain joint counterterrorism and air defense training; Neon Response: Special forces training for urban combat and crisis response.

Key U.S. Military Installations and Cooperation Areas

  • Headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT).

  • Supports U.S. and allied naval patrols in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea.

  • The U.S. assists Bahrain in enhancing maritime security and airspace defense.

  • Bahrain participates in regional missile defense cooperation with the U.S. and Gulf allies.

Strategic Significance

  • U.S. Naval Dominance in the Gulf: Bahrain’s hosting of the U.S. Fifth Fleet ensures American naval supremacy in the Persian Gulf.
  • The partnership strengthens missile defense and naval security against Iranian threats.
  • Protects critical shipping lanes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Counterterrorism and Regional Stability: Bahrain supports U.S.-led anti-terrorism operations and regional crisis response efforts.
  • Bahrain plays a key role in U.S.-backed security initiatives involving GCC, NATO, and Abraham Accords partners.

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