Inaugural Joint Military Exercise SADA TANSEEQ

January 30, 2024

The inaugural India-Saudi Arabia joint military exercise ‘SADA TANSEEQ’ commenced on January 29th in Rajasthan. The aim is to develop interoperability, camaraderie and friendship between the troops. The exercise will continue until February 10.

The Saudi contingent comprises 45 personnel from the Royal Saudi Land Forces. The Indian contingent has 45 personnel from a Mechanised Infantry battalion.

Key Focus Areas

The exercise focuses on training for joint operations in semi-desert terrain under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. This enables both sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for sub-conventional domain operations.

Activities include establishing mobile checkpoints, conducting cordon and search operations, house raid drills, shooting exercises, rappelling and sniper firing.

Enhancing Bilateral Relations

The exercise facilitates building bonds between the troops and achieving shared security objectives. It enhances the level of India-Saudi defence cooperation and furthers bilateral diplomatic ties.

The joint exercise provides real-world experience in an unfamiliar desert environment. It will validate newly developed tactics and procedures.

Strategic Partnership

India and Saudi Arabia have strengthened strategic cooperation in recent years. This includes signing a landmark Green Strategic Partnership agreement in 2021. Defence and security collaboration is a key pillar.

The inaugural joint exercise represents deepening bilateral defence ties. It also helps India demonstrate its growing military profile with key partners. For Saudi Arabia, it aligns with transforming its armed forces.

Broader Significance

The joint exercise comes at a time of evolving regional geopolitics. Saudi Arabia faces threats from groups like Yemen’s Houthi rebels. India contends with cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.

The exercise creates potential for more counterterrorism cooperation and intelligence sharing. As major oil producers, ensuring West Asian stability is a mutual interest. It can help secure vital trade routes.

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