India, Oman begin joint military exercise

The armies of India and Oman are carrying out joint military exercises to acquaint themselves with each other's operating procedures to strengthen counter insurgency and counter terrorism capabilities, officials said Tuesday.

The two armies began the joint training in northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh on Monday.

"A fourteen days joint training exercise of the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman exercise AL NAGAH-II commenced on Monday in Himachal Pradesh," an Indian military spokesman said. "The training contingents are comprised of platoon strength troops from both the armies."

A platoon consists of around 40 to 50 soldiers.

Officials said the aim of the joint exercise is to enhance existing military relationship.

"The aim of the Joint Exercise is to acquaint both forces with each other's operating procedures in the backdrop of counter insurgency, counter terrorism environment, " the spokesman said.

"The exercise will also enhance the interoperability between both the armies in conducting joint operations and cement bonds of friendship between the two countries."

According to officials senior military observers from both countries will be witnessing the validation phase of the exercise.

The last joint exercise between the two armies was held at Muscat in Oman in 2015.

Source: Xinhua