India and Oman Deepen Naval Partnership Through 15th Edition of Naseem Al Bahr Exercise
INS Surat and Oman’s Al-Mu’azzar join hands in strategic maritime engagements, reinforcing naval interoperability, professional expertise and regional security cooperation.
The Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman have successfully conducted the 15th edition of their bilateral maritime exercise, Naseem Al Bahr (Sea Breeze), marking another significant step in strengthening the longstanding maritime partnership between the two friendly nations.
Conducted from November 8 to 11, 2026, the exercise brought together Indian Naval Ship (INS) Surat and Royal Navy of Oman vessel Al-Mu’azzar for a series of professional exchanges and joint operational activities. The engagement focused on enhancing interoperability, improving operational coordination and fostering greater mutual understanding between the two naval forces.
The exercise was organised in two phases, combining professional knowledge-sharing during the harbour phase with practical maritime engagements at sea.
During the harbour phase, specialist teams from both navies participated in Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), covering important areas such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Mine Countermeasure Operations and Hydrography. These interactions provided an opportunity for naval professionals to exchange technical expertise, discuss operational practices and strengthen their understanding of specialised maritime operations.
The sea phase featured coordinated activities between INS Surat and Al-Mu’azzar, including joint Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills and cross-deck operations. These engagements enabled personnel from both navies to practise joint procedures, improve communication and develop greater confidence in working together during maritime operations.
Beyond the operational activities, the exercise highlighted the growing importance of India-Oman defence cooperation, particularly in the maritime domain. Both countries share longstanding historical, economic and strategic connections, with maritime engagement serving as an important pillar of their bilateral relationship.
Naseem Al Bahr also reflects India’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships with friendly maritime nations under its MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The initiative emphasises collaborative approaches to regional security, sustainable development and maritime cooperation.
The latest edition follows the eighth India-Oman Navy Staff Talks held in New Delhi on October 27–28, 2026, which focused on expanding operational engagements, training, information exchange and hydrographic cooperation.
The successful conduct of the 15th Naseem Al Bahr exercise demonstrates the value of sustained naval engagement in building professional capabilities and strengthening mutual trust. Through regular exercises and knowledge-sharing initiatives, India and Oman continue to advance their maritime partnership, contributing to a peaceful, stable and secure Indian Ocean Region.
