An Indian Army contingent, comprising 60 personnel, has departed for the India-Oman joint military exercise Al Najah, scheduled to be conducted from September 13 to 26 at Rabkoot Training Area in Salalah, Oman.
Held biennially since 2015, the joint military exercise aims to enhance the joint military capabilities of the Indian Army and Royal Army of Oman to undertake counter-terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The exercise will focus on operations in the desert environment.
ALSO READ: Indian Air Force ready for 'Exercise Eastern Bridge' with Royal Oman Air Force
Tactical drills to be rehearsed during Al Najah include joint planning, cordon and Search operation, fighting in built-up areas, setting up of mobile vehicle check-posts, and counter-drone and room intervention, among others.
Combined field training exercises that simulate real-world counter-terrorism missions have also been planned, said a defence ministry release.
The exercise, during which both sides will exchange best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for joint operations, is expected to enhance interoperability, goodwill, and camaraderie between the two armies, besides strengthening the defence cooperation and further boost the bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.
READ MORE: 20th edition of India-US joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas, begins in Rajasthan
The last edition of the exercise was held at Mahajan Field Firing Range in Bikaner, Rajasthan. The biennial event alternates between the two countries.
The Indian Army is being represented by a Battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment along with personnel from other arms and services while the Royal Army of Oman contingent is being represented by the troops of Frontier Force.