Naseem Al Bahr: India-Oman Naval Exercise Strengthens Ties

Exercise Overview & Structure

• Bilateral naval exercise 'Naseem Al Bahr' conducted off Goa coast (13-18 October 2024)
• Indian participation: INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft
• Omani participation: Royal Navy vessel Al Seeb
• Two-phase structure: Harbor phase (13-15 Oct) and Sea phase (16-18 Oct)
• Professional interactions, expert exchanges, and planning conferences during harbor phase
• Sports fixtures and social engagements fostered camaraderie

Operational Activities & Technical Demonstrations

• Gun firings at surface inflatable targets
• Close-range anti-aircraft firing exercises
• Complex naval maneuvers and formations
• Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS)
• Cross-deck helicopter landings from INS Trikand
• Vertical replenishment operations with RNOV Al Seeb
• Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data provided by Dornier aircraft
• Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb for enhanced interoperability

Strategic Significance & Bilateral Relations

• Oman is India's closest defense partner in Gulf region
• First Gulf country to conduct joint exercises with all three Indian defense forces
• Exercise strengthens maritime security cooperation in Indian Ocean Region
• Demonstrates India's commitment to regional collaboration
• Enhanced mutual understanding of operational best practices
• Reinforces strategic partnership between both nations
• Contributes to collective security framework in the region