First Training Squadron Completes Visit to Muscat, Oman

Indian Naval Ships Tir and Shardul, along with Indian Coast Guard Ship Veera from the First Training Squadron (1TS), successfully concluded their visit to Muscat, Oman, on October 9, 2024. The four-day visit aimed to enhance cooperation and strengthen maritime ties between India and Oman. The Indian Navy engaged extensively with the Royal Navy of Oman, building stronger bridges of friendship between the two nations.

Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, along with the commanding officers of the visiting ships, met with senior Omani military leaders, including 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. Discussions centered on expanding defence cooperation through training exchanges, shared knowledge, and joint exercises. Vice Admiral Srinivas highlighted the growing strategic partnership and the importance of increased engagement and interoperability between the two navies.

The Indian Naval delegation also toured the Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, exploring ships, maintenance units, and medical facilities. The sea trainees from 1TS visited various facilities, including the Sultan Qaboos Naval Academy, the Fleet Maintenance Unit, and the troop carrier ship Al Naasir of the Royal Navy of Oman. Personnel from the Royal Navy of Oman reciprocated with cross-deck visits to the Indian ships, facilitating an exchange of best practices and fostering camaraderie.

In a community outreach initiative, the squadron engaged local schoolchildren, showcasing the role and capabilities of the Indian Navy. The Indian Naval Symphonic Band also performed at Oman Avenues Mall, captivating the audience with a vibrant musical display that transcended cultural boundaries. Mrs. Vijaya Srinivas, President of the Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (Southern Region), visited the Early Intervention Centre, A.B.L.E., at Indian School Wadi Kabir, where she interacted with faculty and children, commending the school’s efforts.

During the port call, the Indian diaspora, schoolchildren, and members of the Indian Embassy in Oman visited the ships. India’s Ambassador to Oman, Amit Narang, also visited and held discussions with sea trainees. A formal reception was hosted by Vice Admiral Srinivas aboard the ships, attended by dignitaries including Ambassador Narang and Commodore Ali Al Balushi, Assistant Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces, along with other diplomats and guests.

The visit concluded successfully, further strengthening the deep maritime relationship between India and Oman and fostering long-lasting ties between the two nations.