India-Oman Joint Exercise Al Najah V: Strengthening Ties

Exercise Overview and History

• The 5th edition of India-Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najah is scheduled from September 13-26, 2024.
• Location: Rabkoot Training Area in Salalah, Oman.
• Al Najah has been held biennially since 2015, alternating between India and Oman.
• Previous edition took place in Mahajan, Rajasthan, India.
• Indian Army contingent comprises 60 personnel, primarily from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
• Royal Army of Oman also sends 60 personnel, represented by the Frontier Force.

Exercise Objectives and Focus Areas

• Primary aim: Enhance joint military capability for counter-terrorism operations under UN Charter Chapter VII.
• Special focus on desert environment operations.

Tactical drills include:

• • Joint planning
  • Cordon and search operations
  • Fighting in built-up areas
  • Mobile vehicle check post establishment
  • Counter-drone techniques
  • Room intervention drills
• Combined field training exercises simulating real-world counter-terrorism missions.
• Exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for joint operations.

Significance and Bilateral Relations

• Fosters interoperability between Indian and Omani armed forces.
• Promotes goodwill and camaraderie between the two armies.
• Strengthens overall defence cooperation between India and Oman.
• Enhances bilateral relations between India and Oman the two friendly nations.
• Demonstrates India's commitment to international military partnerships.
• Showcases the Indian Army's capabilities in desert warfare and counter-terrorism.