India Oman Joint Military Exercise AL NAJAH (GS Paper 3, Defence)
Context:
- The 5th edition of the India-Oman Joint Military Exercise AL NAJAH is currently underway from September 13 to 26, 2024, in Salalah, Oman.
- This biennial exercise has been a cornerstone of military cooperation between India and Oman, enhancing joint operational capabilities since its inception in 2015.
Background of AL NAJAH:
- Inception and History:
- The AL NAJAH exercise was first held in 2015 and has alternated between India and Oman every two years. The previous exercise took place in Mahajan, Rajasthan.
- The exercise focuses on improving the interoperability and joint operational skills of the participating armies, particularly in counter-terrorism operations.
Indian Army Contingent:
- Composition:
- The Indian Army has deployed a contingent of 60 personnel from a Mechanised Infantry Regiment, supported by additional arms and services.
- The Royal Army of Oman will also send an equal number of personnel from their Frontier Force.
Objectives of the Exercise:
- Primary Goal:
- The main aim of Exercise AL NAJAH is to enhance joint military capabilities for counter-terrorism operations.
- The exercise aligns with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which focuses on maintaining international peace and security.
Focus Areas of the Exercise:
- Joint Planning:
- Developing coordinated strategies and tactics for effective joint operations.
- Cordon and Search Operations:
- Techniques for controlling and searching areas to identify and neutralize threats.
- Urban Combat:
- Training for operations in urban or built-up environments, including tactics for close-quarters combat.
- Mobile Vehicle Check Posts:
- Establishing and managing checkpoints for vehicle searches to enhance security.
- Counter Drone Operations:
- Addressing emerging threats posed by drones, including detection and neutralization.
- Room Intervention Techniques:
- Handling high-risk situations inside buildings, such as hostage scenarios or raids.
Benefits of the Exercise:
- Skill Enhancement:
- The exercise provides an opportunity for both armies to exchange best practices in military tactics and procedures, improving their operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Strengthening Ties:
- AL NAJAH helps build goodwill and strengthens the diplomatic and defense relations between India and Oman.
- Strategic Partnership:
- The exercise underscores India’s strategic partnership with Gulf countries, particularly Oman, enhancing maritime security in the Arabian Sea and addressing regional security threats.
Significance:
- Military and Diplomatic Relations:
- The AL NAJAH exercise reflects the deep-rooted strategic relationship between India and Oman, dating back to 1950. It is a vital component of their defense cooperation, aimed at reinforcing mutual respect and understanding.
- Regional Security:
- By addressing counter-terrorism and other security challenges through joint exercises, India and Oman contribute to regional stability and enhance their collaborative efforts in maritime security.
Through AL NAJAH, both India and Oman continue to advance their military cooperation, leveraging joint training to bolster their ability to respond to contemporary security challenges effectively.
