India and Oman Strengthen Defence Partnership During 3rd Army-to-Army Staff Talks

India and Oman have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen military collaboration during the 3rd Army-to-Army Staff Talks (AAST) held in New Delhi from October 22-23, 2025. The meeting aimed to strengthen existing defence ties and chart a forward-looking roadmap to boost strategic and operational synergy between the two armies.

The Indian delegation was led by senior officers from the Army Headquarters, while the Omani side was represented by officials from the Royal Army of Oman (RAO). The discussions covered a wide range of subjects, including joint training programs, expert exchanges in niche domains, and upcoming joint exercises to enhance interoperability.

Both sides also reviewed the progress of past engagements and explored new avenues under the proposed Defence Cooperation Plan 2026, which is expected to guide future interactions between the two forces. The plan focuses on expanding professional military education, enhancing training collaboration, and promoting knowledge exchange in areas such as logistics, cyber defence, and operational readiness.

Officials emphasized that such talks play a vital role in fostering long-term strategic cooperation, especially as Oman remains a key defence partner for India in the Gulf region. Oman is also the only Gulf nation with which India conducts joint exercises across all three defence services – Army, Navy, and Air Force – highlighting the depth of bilateral engagement.

The 3rd AAST further reinforced the shared vision of both countries to maintain regional stability and strengthen defence preparedness through regular dialogue and capacity building. The discussions underscored the mutual trust and friendship that form the cornerstone of the India-Oman defence relationship.

This initiative reflects India’s broader commitment to enhancing defence diplomacy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the Gulf, promoting peace, security, and cooperation through meaningful partnerships.

As the Defence Cooperation Plan 2026 takes shape, both nations are expected to expand their collaboration through joint drills, expert-level meetings, and defence industry linkages, paving the way for a stronger, future-ready partnership between the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman.