BDF steps up recruitment, modernisation drive

A major recruitment drive, expanded cyber and drone capabilities, and renewed investment in young recruits are central to the Barbados Defence Force’s plans to respond to an increasingly complex security environment, Chief of Staff Brigadier Carlos Lovell said on Sunday as the military marked its 47th anniversary.

He told the anniversary gala at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre that in light of the constant threats, the BDF must continue to rearrange itself, modernise and develop new capabilities to defend the island’s national interests.

BDF and government officials at the BDF anniversary church service (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

BDF soldiers in attendance at the 47th anniversary church service (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

Colour party at attention awaiting the start of the church service (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

Sky Dowridge performed a rendition of Spirit Lead Us. (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

Staff Sargeant Zawayne Alleyne with the Barbados Cadet Corp gave a captivating flute solo (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

Chief of Staff Brigadier Carlos Lovell (Photo credit: Lourianne Graham / Barbados TODAY)

“That transformation is already on the way,” he said. “It will underpin our success in contributing to safer maritime, cyber and airspaces, and in support to the Barbados Police Service, ultimately to safer communities. Without a doubt, this transformation will result in a better Barbados Defence Force and a safer, more prosperous Barbados.”

The armed forces chief highlighted an evolving global security landscape, acknowledging current and emerging threats which complicate the national and regional operational environment.

“Small states such as ours can no longer pick only in traditional terms. Security threats continue to emerge across the maritime, land, cyber, and air domains, and they challenge the ability of states to protect its people.”

He also pointed to criminal threats at the regional and international levels.

“We are witnessing the sophistication of transnational criminal networks as they leverage regional and international networks to outpace regional forces, cyber threats that disrupt critical national infrastructure, disinformation campaigns that undermine public trust and confidence, and natural disasters that continue to test national resilience.”

He stated that the broader purpose of modernisation is to strengthen traditional security functions and add value to various sectors.

“The force must contribute not only to security but also to sustainability, resilience, innovation and economy. Educational institutions and local communities so that together we can help make Barbados a regional model of technological advancement, economic resilience and security excellence.”

Brigadier Lovell declared the BDF’s intention to expand and attract young individuals.

“By necessity, we are expanding and seeking to attract patriotic, innovative global citizens who are willing to sacrifice for their country, for their communities, and for their families, we in the Barbados Defence Force are resolute in our mission and steadfast in our desire to make Barbados a better place to live, to work, to do business, to study, and most importantly, to nurture the next generation of Barbadians.”

A multi-role national drone unit is being developed for the military and law enforcement, the chief of staff disclosed.

“Not only military and law enforcement operations, but will also provide services in disaster management, maritime surveillance, environmental monitoring, agriculture, and many other sectors of government. We are helping to form the nucleus of a national cybersecurity capability and investing in skills required to protect Barbados in this digital age.”

He further revealed: “I am particularly encouraged by the strides being made by the Barbados Cadet Corps; new units are being established. Technological assets are being acquired, such as drones, ICT equipment, robotics, and medical training equipment. These are all being introduced in an effort to upskill and to provide the skills and capabilities to our young people. The many opportunities for leadership development and expansion, communication, and conflict management are expanding within the corps.”

He commended the Cadet Corps for seeking patriotic Barbadians to serve as officers and mentors in support of its growth and expansion.

The BDF chief pointed to the force’s pursuit of world-class military education and training with international partners “because excellence demands that we learn from the best, wherever and whoever they may be”.

He continued: “It would be remiss of me not to mention that my headquarters is working assiduously with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment to reintroduce and reestablish the Barbados Defence Force sports programme with a new mandate and an expanded role in Barbados.” (LE)