The India-Oman joint military exercise, AL-NAJAH 5 – 2024, currently underway at the Rabkoot Training Area in Oman, is in full swing. The exercise, which began on 13th September, will continue until 26th September. The Indian Army contingent, comprising 60 personnel, is represented by a battalion of the Mechanised Infantry Regiment, along with personnel from other arms and services.
In the initial days, training focused on combat first aid, casualty evacuation, weapon handling of both armies’ weapons, and counter-drone drills to enhance interoperability, reflecting the latest trends in modern warfare. Subsequent training emphasized Assault Rifle, Sniper, Pistol, and LMG firing to simulate their application in actual operations, focusing on reflex firing and close-quarter battle.
Valuable combat experience was exchanged through case studies, with both the Indian and Royal Army of Oman engineers collaborating on field engineering tasks, addressing key aspects of real-time combat scenarios.
Following this, both contingents participated in a dynamic field training exercise, with a focus on real-world scenarios and practical combat skills. The training covered a range of complex situations, including clearing built-up areas, casualty evacuation, hostage rescue, and replenishing supplies and ammunition in a combat zone.
Beyond tactical drills, AL-NAJAH 5 has also facilitated cultural exchange, which plays a key role in strengthening ties between the two forces. The exercise will conclude with a grand live-fire demonstration, showcasing the cohesion and interoperability developed between the two armies for conducting peacekeeping operations under the UN mandate.
Vinod Kumar (UAE)