Naseem Al Bahr brought the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman together for their 15th bilateral maritime exercise. The exercise is relevant to India’s international relations and maritime cooperation.
Quick answer: Naseem Al Bahr, meaning Sea Breeze, is an India-Oman naval exercise. In its 15th edition, the navies held expert exchanges in harbour and joint drills at sea. Indian Naval Ship Surat and Omani ship Al-Muazzar participated. The source does not specify the exercise dates or venue.
What happened at Naseem Al Bahr?
The two navies conducted the 15th edition to improve coordination, professional cooperation and mutual understanding. The exercise had a harbour phase and a sea phase.
During the harbour phase, specialist teams exchanged professional knowledge and operational experience. At sea, crews practised coordinated procedures through joint activities.
| Feature | Fact |
|---|---|
| Participating navies | Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman |
| Indian ship | Indian Naval Ship Surat |
| Omani ship | Al-Muazzar |
| Exercise phases | Harbour and sea |
What did each phase involve?
The harbour phase focused on specialist exchanges, while the sea phase tested joint procedures. Aspirants should distinguish the discussions from the operational drills.
- Harbour discussions: Expert teams discussed explosive ordnance disposal, maritime mine detection and neutralisation, and hydrography.
- Boarding drills: At sea, personnel practised visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) procedures together.
- Cross-deck operations: The sea phase also included cross-deck activities involving the participating ships.
Hydrography concerns the measurement and description of water bodies and their physical features. Mine detection and neutralisation, meanwhile, address underwater explosive hazards.
Why does the exercise matter?
The exercise strengthens the ability of Indian and Omani naval personnel to work together. In particular, shared drills help crews practise coordinated procedures.
Naseem Al Bahr also reflects cooperation under India’s MAHASAGAR vision: Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. For broader naval context, see CBL’s coverage of the Indian Navy warships deal and the naval corvettes deal.
Where is Oman located?
Oman lies on the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. Its coastline faces the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman; it also borders the Strait of Hormuz.
For prelims, connect the country with its surrounding waters, but do not assume the exercise venue. The supplied source identifies the ships and phases, not a specific port or sea area.
Source: Press Information Bureau, 12 November 2026
Punjab PCS and Haryana HCS may test this exercise under General Studies current affairs. In particular, revise the partner country, edition and participating ships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries participate in Naseem Al Bahr?
India and Oman participate in the exercise. Their respective navies conduct the bilateral maritime activities.
What does Naseem Al Bahr mean?
It means Sea Breeze. The name identifies the bilateral naval exercise between India and Oman.
Which ships joined the 15th edition?
Indian Naval Ship Surat and Omani ship Al-Muazzar joined the sea phase. Together, their crews practised boarding drills and cross-deck operations.
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