Why in the News? 

The 13th edition of the 'Naseem Al Bahr' (Sea Breeze) maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman is underway from October 19 to 22, 2024, off the coast of Oman. The exercise focuses on enhancing bilateral naval cooperation and strengthening operational capabilities to ensure maritime security. 

About 'Naseem Al Bahr' 

• Initiated in 1993, it is a biennial maritime exercise conducted to bolster defence cooperation between India and Oman. 
• This year’s edition marks three decades of bilateral naval cooperation, showcasing the evolving partnership between the two nations in maintaining regional peace and security. 
• Participating Indian Navy Ships 
  • INS Visakhapatnam (Guided Missile Destroyer) 
  • INS Trikand (Frigate) 
  • Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft 
• Participating Royal Navy of Oman Assets 
  • RNOV Al-Shamikh (Corvette) 
  • RNOV Al-Bushra (Patrol Vessel) 
  • Maritime Aircraft 
• Exercise Phases 
  • Harbour Phase: Included professional interactions, planning meetings, and cultural exchange to foster mutual understanding between the navies. 
  • Sea Phase: Focused on anti-air, surface, and underwater warfare operations, including coordinated tactical maneuvers and boarding drills. 
• Aim and Significance 
  • Enhance interoperability and maritime domain awareness between the two nations. 
  • Promote regional stability and freedom of navigation in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. 
  • Strengthen naval diplomacy between India and Oman, reinforcing their shared commitment to maritime security.