The Indian Navy’s INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft participated in the bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr with the Royal Navy of Oman’s vessel Al Seeb from October 13 to 18. The exercise, held off the coast of Goa, focused on enhancing naval interoperability and fostering collaboration between the two nations.
The exercise was conducted in two phases: a harbour phase from October 13 to 15, followed by a sea phase from October 16 to 18. During the harbour phase, personnel from both navies engaged in professional interactions, including Subject Matter Expert Exchanges and planning conferences, complemented by sports activities and social events.
The sea phase featured various operational exercises, including gun firings at inflatable surface targets, close-range anti-aircraft drills, and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS). An integral helicopter from INS Trikand conducted cross-deck landings and vertical replenishment (VERTREP) operations with RNOV Al Seeb. Additionally, the Indian Navy’s Dornier aircraft provided critical Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data to enhance operational effectiveness.
To further promote interoperability, Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb for a day, facilitating a deeper understanding of each other’s best practices.
The exercise was deemed a resounding success, meeting its objectives of improving interoperability, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening ties between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman. This collaboration reaffirms India’s commitment to constructive partnerships and mutual growth with like-minded nations in the Indian Ocean Region.
