Indian Army Departs For ‘Al Najah’. Joint Counter-Terrorism Drill With Oman Begins On Friday

A group of 60 Indian soldiers have left for the India-Oman joint military exercise Al Najah, set to take place from September 13 to 26 at Oman’s Rabkoot Training Area in Salalah.

Conducted every two years since 2015, the joint military exercise’s primary objective is to bolster the joint military prowess of the Indian Army and Royal Army of Oman in conducting counter-terrorism operations, as per Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. This year’s training will specifically concentrate on desert warfare.

During Al Najah, a variety of tactical drills will be practiced. These include joint planning, cordon and search operations, fighting in built-up areas, setting up mobile vehicle check-posts, as well as counter-drone and room intervention.

A statement from the defence ministry has announced that they have scheduled joint field training exercises to imitate actual counter-terrorism operations.

The upcoming exercise will involve a shared review of effective tactics, techniques, and procedures for joint operations between both sides. It is anticipated to improve the ease of cooperation, foster positive relationships, and bolster defense partnerships between the two armies. Additionally, it will also contribute to strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

The most recent exercise took place at Mahajan Field Firing Range in Bikaner, Rajasthan. This biennial event is rotated between the two nations.

A Battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment is representing the Indian Army, joined by personnel from other arms and services. Meanwhile, the troops of Frontier Force are representing the Royal Army of Oman contingent.