Goa: The Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr, involving Indian Navy’s INS Trikand, Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and Royal Navy of Oman’s vessel RNOV Al Seeb, concluded successfully off the coast of Goa. The exercise, held from October 13 to 18, 2024, marked yet another step in strengthening the cooperation and interoperability between the two navies.
The exercise, conducted in two phases, began with a harbour phase from October 13 to 15, which saw personnel from both navies engage in professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, and joint planning conferences. These discussions were complemented by social engagements and sports activities that fostered camaraderie and mutual respect between the sailors of both nations.
The sea phase, from October 16 to 18, was the highlight of the exercise. Both INS Trikand and RNOV Al Seeb carried out complex naval maneuvers, including gun firings at surface inflatable targets, close-range anti-aircraft firings, and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS). INS Trikand’s integral helicopter was involved in cross-deck landings and vertical replenishment (VERTREP) operations with RNOV Al Seeb. The Indian Navy’s Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft provided critical Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT) data, enhancing the effectiveness of the participating ships.
To further improve interoperability, Indian Navy Sea Riders embarked on RNOV Al Seeb for a day, sharing best practices and fostering deeper collaboration.
The exercise successfully met its objectives of enhancing mutual understanding, strengthening operational cohesion, and improving interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman. The successful execution of Naseem-Al-Bahr also reaffirms India’s commitment to promoting constructive collaboration with like-minded nations in the Indian Ocean Region.
