Indian, Omani armies conduct joint military exercise

New Delhi, Sep 12: The Indian Army contingent departed today for the 5th edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise, AL NAJAH. The exercise, scheduled from 13th to 26th September 2024, will take place at the Rabkoot Training Area in Salalah, Oman, a defence ministry press release said.

The joint military exercises are held biennially since 2015, AL NAJAH alternates between India and Oman, with the previous edition conducted in Mahajan, Rajasthan.

This year, the Indian Army sent a contingent of 60-personnel, a battalion from the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, along with troops from other arms and services. The Royal Army of Oman is also contributing 60 personnel from its Frontier Force.

The primary goal of the exercise is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both armies in counter-terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. Training will focus on desert operations and real-world counter-terrorism scenarios.

Key drills include joint planning, cordon and search operations, fighting in built-up areas, establishing mobile vehicle checkpoints, counter-drone tactics, and room intervention techniques. Combined field training exercises simulating real-world missions are also part of the agenda.

Exercise AL NAJAH V aims to improve interoperability, build goodwill and camaraderie between the two forces, and strengthen defence cooperation, further boosting bilateral relations between India and Oman.