The First Training Squadron (1TS) of the Indian Navy, comprising INS Tir, INS Shardul, and ICGS Veera, arrived at Muscat, Oman, on 05 October 2024 as part of their long-range training deployment. This visit reflects the growing strength of defense relations between India and Oman in the maritime domain.
Key Objectives of the Visit
The Indian Navy’s engagement with the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) during the visit (05–09 October 2024) includes:
- Maritime Security: Both navies will collaborate on aspects of maritime security and improving interoperability.
- Joint Exercises and Interactions: The visit will feature harbour interactions and joint naval exercises to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
- Training and Professional Exchange: Naval personnel from both sides will participate in professional exchanges and training programs, strengthening naval knowledge-sharing.
- Sports and Cultural Interaction: Friendly sports fixtures between the navies are also scheduled to promote camaraderie.
This is the third visit of the 1TS to Muscat in the last ten years, underlining the steady consolidation of naval cooperation between India and Oman.
Bilateral Discussions
Alongside the visit of 1TS, Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command (FOCINC South), is also on an official visit to Oman from 06–09 October 2024. During this time, he will engage in bilateral discussions with:
- Vice Admiral Abdullah bin Khamis bin Abdullah Al Raisi, Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (COSSAF).
- Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser bin Mohsen Al-Rahbi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (CRNO).
These discussions are set to focus on deepening defense collaboration between India and Oman. Additionally, Vice Admiral Srinivas will visit key defense and naval training facilities in Oman.
Naval Cooperation and Recent Engagements
India and Oman have a strong naval cooperation history, with ongoing exchanges in operations, training, and joint projects. Most recently, the 6th edition of the Indian Navy-Royal Navy of Oman Staff Talks was held in June 2024 in New Delhi, which contributed to furthering the collaboration between both nations. The current visit of 1TS and FOCINC South is expected to further enhance these efforts.
The deployment of 1TS is a key step in India’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its naval ties with Oman, positioning both nations to address regional maritime security challenges effectively.
