India-Oman Naval Exercise Naseem Al Bahr Concludes Successfully in Muscat
The 15th edition of the India-Oman naval exercise Naseem Al Bahr concluded, enhancing maritime cooperation between the two nations.
Muscat, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : The 15th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise ‘Naseem Al Bahr’ between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman successfully concluded on November 11 in Muscat. This exercise aimed to enhance coordination, strengthen professional collaboration, and deepen mutual understanding between the two navies.
During the harbor phase, subject matter expert exchanges (SMEE) took place, focusing on key topics of mutual interest, including explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), mine countermeasure operations, and hydrography. These discussions allowed both navies to share their operational experiences and expertise in specific maritime areas.
In the sea phase, Indian warship INS Surat and Oman’s naval vessel Al-Muazzar engaged in joint maritime activities. Drills such as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) and cross-deck operations were conducted, providing personnel from both navies an opportunity to work together and improve operational coordination.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the ‘Naseem Al Bahr’ exercise symbolizes the strong maritime partnership between India and Oman. It reflects both countries’ commitment to enhancing naval cooperation. This exercise aligns with the Indian government’s vision for ‘Oceans’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), aimed at promoting regional security, stability, and development.
INS Surat arrived in Muscat on November 8, where the joint maritime exercise took place from November 8 to 11.
Last month, India and Oman held the eighth edition of naval staff talks in New Delhi, co-chaired by Commodore Karthik Shrimall from the Indian Navy and Commodore Ahmed Juma Salim Al Khateri from Oman. Discussions focused on shared challenges in maritime security, joint operations, training, information sharing, and strengthening hydrographic cooperation.
Earlier, the Indian Navy’s three-masted training ship INS Sudarshini visited the Omani port of Salalah as part of its historic ‘Lokayan-2026’ oceanic campaign from October 14 to 17. During this four-day visit, professional meetings, sports activities, and cultural programs were organized between Indian and Omani naval personnel.
These initiatives have fostered friendship and mutual understanding among the naval forces, further strengthening the ties between the people of India and Oman. Overall, the growing naval cooperation between India and Oman in recent months has reinforced their robust strategic and maritime partnership.
