Section 1263 Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative (MSI)

Purpose:

Increase maritime security and maritime domain awareness of foreign countries along the South China Sea and into South Asia.

Authorization:

FY16 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 1263 and expires December 2025.

Who:

The NDAA specifies seven Indo-Pacific MSI nations for assistance and training: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. In addition, there is a provision that allows incremental expenses for personnel from Taiwan, Singapore and Brunei to participate in training. Country teams work through the Geographic Combatant Command (GCC) to nominate proposals to Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Staff for approval. DSCA provides program management and execution through the Implementing Agencies.

Funding:

Annual Appropriation.