On October 9, Indian Naval Ships Tir and Shardul, together with the Indian Coast Guard Ship Veera from the First Training Squadron (1TS), completed a successful four-day visit to Muscat, Oman. The purpose of the visit was to bolster collaboration and enhance the Bridges of Friendship between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.
Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, and the commanding officers of the visiting ships engaged in significant discussions with Vice Admiral Abdullah Bin Khamis Bin Abdullah Al Raisi, Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces, and Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser bin Mohsen Al-Rahbi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman. The focus was on enhancing defence cooperation through training exchanges, shared knowledge, and joint exercises. VAdm Srinivas emphasized the importance of growing the strategic partnership, increasing engagement, and improving interoperability between the two navies.
During their visit, the Indian delegation toured the Zayed Bin Sultan Naval Base, exploring various ships, maintenance units, and medical facilities. The sea trainees of 1TS also visited training simulators and the sports complex at Sultan Qaboos Naval Academy. Additionally, they toured the Fleet Maintenance Unit and the troop carrier ship Al Naasir of the Royal Navy of Oman. Personnel from the Royal Navy visited the Indian ships as part of a cross-deck initiative, facilitating exchanges of best practices and fostering camaraderie.
The 1TS also engaged in community outreach, providing schoolchildren with insights into the role and capabilities of the Indian Navy. The Indian Naval Symphonic Band performed at Oman Avenues Mall, captivating audiences with a vibrant display of music that transcended language and cultural barriers. Vijaya Srinivas, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (Southern Region) visited the A.B.L.E Early Intervention Centre in Indian School Wadi Kabir, where she interacted with faculty and differently abled children, commending the school’s initiatives.
During the port call, students, members of the Indian Embassy in Oman, and members of the Indian diaspora visited the naval ships. Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to Oman, also visited the 1TS ships and participated in an interactive session with the sea trainees.
A formal reception hosted by VAdm Srinivas onboard the 1TS ships marked the visit’s conclusion. The event was attended by Ambassador Narang, Commodore Ali Al Balushi, Assistant Chief of Staff for Administration and Logistics in the Sultan’s Armed Forces, as well as diplomats, Omani dignitaries, and other esteemed guests.
The visit concluded on a high note, significantly strengthening the bonds and fostering long-lasting ties between the two maritime nations.
