India and Oman Strengthen Ties with ‘Naseem Al Bahr’ Naval Exercise in Goa
The Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman recently completed their joint naval exercise, ‘Naseem Al Bahr’, off the coast of Goa. This exercise took place from October 13 to October 18 and was shared by the Indian Navy on social media.
Exercise Phases
The exercise was divided into two phases. The harbour phase occurred from October 13 to October 15, featuring professional interactions, expert exchanges, planning conferences, sports, and social events. The sea phase followed from October 16 to October 18, involving activities like gun firings, anti-aircraft drills, and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS).
Key Activities
During the sea phase, the INS Trikand’s helicopter performed cross-deck landings and vertical replenishment with RNOV Al Seeb. The Indian Navy’s Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting data. Additionally, Indian Navy Sea Riders spent a day on RNOV Al Seeb to enhance interoperability.
Strengthening Partnerships
The exercise successfully strengthened interoperability and understanding between the two navies. Earlier in June, India and Oman held Staff Talks in New Delhi to further bolster their defense relations. Oman is a key defense partner for India in the Gulf region, and such exercises deepen their strategic partnership.
Doubts Revealed
Naseem Al Bahr -: ‘Naseem Al Bahr’ is a naval exercise conducted between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman. It is a way for both countries to practice working together at sea and improve their naval skills.
Goa -: Goa is a small state on the western coast of India, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. It is a popular tourist destination and also hosts important naval exercises like ‘Naseem Al Bahr’.
Harbour phase -: The harbour phase is the part of a naval exercise that takes place at the port. During this time, the navies engage in professional interactions, planning, and preparation before going out to sea.
Sea phase -: The sea phase is the part of the naval exercise that happens in the open water. This is where the ships perform various drills and practice maneuvers to improve their skills and coordination.
Cross-deck landings -: Cross-deck landings involve aircraft from one navy landing on the ships of another navy. This practice helps improve coordination and understanding between the two navies.
Interoperability -: Interoperability means the ability of different military forces to work together effectively. In this context, it refers to the Indian and Omani navies being able to operate together smoothly during joint exercises.
Gulf ally -: A Gulf ally refers to a country in the Gulf region, like Oman, that is a friend and partner to India. These alliances are important for maintaining peace and security in the region.
Staff Talks -: Staff Talks are meetings between military officials from different countries. They discuss ways to improve cooperation and strengthen their defense relationships.
