Indian Army Embarks on Joint Military Exercise Al Najah in Oman

The Indian Army contingent has departed for Oman to participate in the 5th edition of India-Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najah, slated for September 13-26. The exercise aims to enhance joint military capabilities and strengthen bilateral ties. Concurrently, the Indian Air Force will engage in Exercise Eastern Bridge VII in Oman.

The Indian Army contingent has departed for Oman to participate in the 5th edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najah. Scheduled from September 13-26, the exercise will be held at the Rabkoot Training Area in Salalah, Oman. The Ministry of Defence announced in a press release that Exercise Al Najah has been conducted biennially since 2015, alternating between India and Oman. The last edition took place in Mahajan, Rajasthan.

A contingent of 60 personnel from the Indian Army's Mechanised Infantry Regiment, along with members from other arms and services, will collaborate with 60 personnel from the Royal Army of Oman's Frontier Force. The exercise aims to bolster the two nations' joint military capability to undertake counter-terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, focusing on operations in a desert environment.

The Defence Ministry noted that tactical drills to be rehearsed include Joint Planning, Cordon and Search Operations, Fighting in Built Up Areas, establishing Mobile Vehicle Check Posts, counter-drone measures, and Room Intervention, among other activities. Combined field training simulating real-world counter-terrorism missions is also on the agenda. The exercise will foster interoperability, goodwill, and camaraderie, thereby strengthening defence cooperation and bilateral relations between India and Oman.

Simultaneously, an Indian Air Force contingent comprising MiG-29s, Jaguars, and C-17s will participate in Exercise Eastern Bridge VII in Oman from September 11-22. This seventh edition will take place at the Air Force base Masirah. According to a Defence Ministry release, the bilateral exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the Royal Oman Air Force and the Indian Air Force, offering a platform for joint training missions designed to boost strategic cooperation and operational readiness. The exercise includes complex aerial manoeuvres, air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, and logistical coordination, reflecting the evolving defence needs and strategic interests of both nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)