In August 2009, President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov announced the creation of a new independent navy, saying that it would be used to protect the nation from external threats, such as "international terrorist groups" who "would like to disturb the Turkmen people's peaceful life".

Iranian media referred to the navy's actions as "a move beyond diplomatic norms and contrary to international law".

In September 2014, over 100 cadets of the naval institute attended a training course organized by the OSCE on maritime border security and the management of ports.

[25] Candidates are admitted to the Naval Institute based on the results of entrance exams of the Ministry of Defense of Turkmenistan.

Admission to study at the Specialized Naval School requires youth who are in 7th grade as well as morally educated and physically strong students.