The fifth edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise, Al Najah V, concluded on 26th September 2024 with a grand closing ceremony at the Rabkoot Training Area in Oman. The event was attended by senior officials from both countries, including Mr. Amit Narang, Indian Ambassador to Oman, and Captain Harish Srinivasan, Indian Defence Attache to Oman. Representing Oman were Brigadier General Abdulkadhim Bin Ibrahim Al-Ajmi, Commander of the 11th Infantry Brigade, Royal Army of Oman, and Lieutenant Colonel Masood Mubarak Al-Ghafri, Commanding Officer of the Frontier Force.
The ceremony marked the end of the two-week bilateral exercise, which aimed to enhance joint military skills and strengthen ties between the two nations. A live-fire demonstration by contingents from both the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman was a key feature of the closing ceremony. The joint exercise focused on peacekeeping operations under a UN mandate and emphasized jointness and interoperability between the two armies.
Approximately 60 soldiers from both sides participated in the live-fire demonstration, which showcased a range of tactical scenarios. These included the simulated isolation and clearance of a village in desert terrain by a joint force consisting of Armoured Personnel Carrier-based troops from India and Oman. The exercise also featured house clearance drills and a hostage rescue operation, highlighting the capabilities of both forces in complex operational environments.
Snipers from both armies demonstrated their precision marksmanship, further underscoring the high level of skill and coordination achieved during the exercise. A notable aspect of the demonstration was the use of state-of-the-art Indian-made equipment, including drones for real-time surveillance and ballistic shields for room intervention and hostage protection.
The exercise concluded with a flag ceremony, an equipment display, and an exchange of pleasantries between the two contingents. Al Najah V not only enhanced the tactical capabilities of both armies but also deepened the military relationship between India and Oman. The successful completion of the exercise reflects the commitment of both nations to maintaining world peace and fostering stronger bilateral military cooperation.(pr)