Kuwait Navy Nations // Middle East/North Africa

OVERVIEW The Kuwaiti navy is responsible for patrolling the country's 310-mile (499-km) coastline and littoral areas to ensure protection of the sea lanes of communication and offshore economic assets. In March 2011, Kuwaiti navy personnel joined forces from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to help quell civil unrest in Bahrain. PERSONNEL STRENGTH Approximately 1,500 personnel serve in the navy. There are also about 500 uniformed coast guard personnel.