India and Oman Bilateral Naval Exercise Naseem Al Bahr

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Key takeaways

INS Surat arrived at Muscat, Oman, to participate in the 15th edition of Exercise Naseem Al Bahr and a subsequent Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT).
Started in 1993, Naseem Al Bahr is a biennial naval exercise designed to boost interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.
The initiative aligns with India's MAHASAGAR vision and builds on decisions from the 13th Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC) meeting in November 2025.
INS Surat, commissioned in 2025, is the final stealth guided-missile destroyer constructed under Project 15B (Visakhapatnam-class).

INS Surat has reached Muscat in Oman to take part in the 15th edition of Exercise Naseem Al Bahr.
Both navies will also carry out a joint Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) after completing this bilateral maritime exercise.

The Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman started this biennial bilateral naval exercise back in 1993.
The exercise aims to improve operational interoperability, build stronger maritime security, and deepen naval cooperation between both nations.
The Harbour Phase focuses on professional interactions, cross-deck visits, and friendly sports events to boost mutual understanding.
The Sea Phase involves real-time tactical drills and joint maritime maneuvers to train the navies to operate together effectively.
The following Coordinated Patrol boosts joint surveillance capabilities across critical sea lanes in the Arabian Sea.
The exercise allows both navies to exchange operational experience, tactical knowledge, and best naval practices.

This exercise strengthens strategic defense cooperation between India and Oman in the broader Gulf region.
It supports regional maritime stability by building joint preparedness and surveillance capabilities in the Arabian Sea.
The engagement builds upon the progress made during the 13th Joint Military Cooperation Committee (JMCC) meeting held in November 2025.
This bilateral exercise aligns closely with India's MAHASAGAR vision for regional security and holistic growth across maritime boundaries.

INS Surat is the fourth and final stealth guided-missile destroyer built under Project 15B (Visakhapatnam-class).
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Surat into active service in 2025.
The warship features advanced weapon systems, modern sensors, and high-tech surveillance technology to improve national defense.