India and Oman Strengthen Naval Ties Through Joint Maritime Exercise
India and Oman have strengthened their maritime partnership with the successful conduct of the 15th edition of their bilateral naval exercise, Naseem Al Bahr (Sea Breeze).
The exercise brought together the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman. It focused on improving operational coordination, enhancing interoperability and strengthening professional cooperation between the two forces.
The joint exercise also provided an opportunity for both navies to exchange expertise. It aimed to promote mutual understanding and build stronger professional relationships.
Harbour Phase: Specialist Teams Exchange Technical Expertise
During the harbour phase, specialist teams from both navies participated in Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE).
The discussions covered three important areas:
- Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD): Sharing expertise in identifying and handling explosive threats.
- Mine Countermeasure Operations: Exchanging knowledge on detecting and dealing with naval mines.
- Hydrography: Sharing technical knowledge related to maritime mapping and underwater navigation.
These interactions helped personnel exchange professional knowledge. They also strengthened cooperation in specialised maritime operations. Press Information Bureau+1
Sea Phase: INS Surat and Al-Mu’azzar Conduct Joint Drills
The sea phase featured joint operational activities between Indian Naval Ship (INS) Surat and Royal Navy of Oman Vessel Al-Mu’azzar.
The activities included:
- Joint Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills.
- Cross-deck operations between the participating naval units.
- Coordinated operational procedures.
- Practical training to improve interoperability.
The VBSS drills allowed personnel to practise boarding, searching and seizure procedures. These exercises are important for coordinated maritime security operations.
The joint activities also gave naval personnel an opportunity to understand each other’s operational methods. Press Information Bureau+1
India-Oman Naval Partnership and MAHASAGAR Vision
The 15th edition of Naseem Al Bahr reflects the longstanding maritime partnership between India and Oman.
Both countries share an interest in maintaining maritime security and stability in the region. Regular naval engagements help build trust and improve coordination.
The exercise also supports India’s MAHASAGAR vision. It stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
Through such engagements, the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its cooperation with regional maritime partners. Press Information Bureau+1
INS Surat Arrived in Muscat on November 8
INS Surat arrived at Muscat, Oman, on November 8, 2026, to participate in the bilateral exercise. The naval engagement was conducted from November 8 to 11.
The visit highlighted the strong defence and maritime ties between the two countries. It also provided an opportunity for further professional interaction between their naval personnel. Press Information Bureau+1
Conclusion
The successful conduct of the 15th Naseem Al Bahr exercise marks another important step in India-Oman defence cooperation.
Joint naval drills, technical exchanges and operational interactions will help both forces work more effectively together. The exercise also reinforces India’s commitment to stronger maritime partnerships in the Indian Ocean region.
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Indian Navy INS Surat and Royal Navy of Oman participate in the 15th edition of Naseem Al Bahr 2026 maritime exercise.
Official Source: Press Information Bureau – Ministry of Defence.
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