India-Oman Joint Military Exercise AL NAJAH

September 13, 2024

The Indian Army has sent a team to participate in the 5th edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise AL NAJAH, which is being held from 13th to 26th September 2024 in Salalah, Oman. This exercise is an important event that has been helping improve military cooperation between the two countries since it first started in 2015.

Background of AL NAJAH

The AL NAJAH exercise is held every two years and alternates between India and Oman. The last edition took place in Mahajan, Rajasthan. The main goal of each exercise is to improve the joint operational abilities of the two armies, especially in situations involving counter-terrorism.

Indian Army Contingent

The Indian Army’s team includes 60 personnel from a Mechanised Infantry Regiment, along with support from other arms and services. The Royal Army of Oman will also send an equal number of personnel from their Frontier Force.

Aim of the Exercise

The primary goal of Exercise AL NAJAH is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both India and Oman, especially for counter-terrorism operations. This cooperation follows Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which focuses on maintaining peace and security.

Focus Areas of the Exercise

The exercise will be held in the desert and will focus on several tactical drills, including:

Joint Planning
Cordon and Search Operations (controlling an area and searching for threats)
Urban Combat (fighting in city or built-up areas)
Mobile Vehicle Check Posts (setting up checkpoints for vehicle searches)
Counter Drone Operations
Room Intervention Techniques (handling dangerous situations inside buildings)

The participants will go through field training exercises that mimic real-world situations, allowing them to practice and improve their counter-terrorism skills.

Benefits of the Exercise

Exercise AL NAJAH V will allow both armies to share their best practices in military tactics and procedures. This will help improve their ability to work together, build goodwill, and strengthen the friendship between the two armies.

In addition to military training, this exercise aims to strengthen defence cooperation and improve the diplomatic relationship between India and Oman, improving closer ties between the two countries.

About the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise

The India-Oman Joint Military Exercise, called AL NAJAH, began in 2015 and focuses on improving the ability of both armies to work together. It is held in the deserts of Oman and mainly involves infantry tactics and counter-terrorism operations. The exercise reflects India’s strategic relationship with Gulf countries, especially with Oman, which is India’s oldest ally in the region, dating back to 1950. This partnership also helps improve maritime security in the Arabian Sea by addressing regional threats. Through these exercises, India and Oman continue to strengthen their mutual respect and understanding.

« Previous Post Next Post »