India and Oman are taking their long-standing military partnership to the next level with joint exercises that benefit both nations. Oman, known for its strong relationship with Iran and the rest of the Gulf, is looking to expand its global partnerships, while India plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Experts believe these collaborations are vital for both countries.
Joint Exercises to Boost Security
From September 11 to 22, an Indian Air Force team will join the seventh edition of Exercise Eastern Bridge at Masirah Air Force Base in Oman. This team includes India’s powerful MiG-29s, Jaguars, and C-17 aircraft, which will work alongside Oman’s air force. These exercises are part of a series of regular military drills between the two countries, which also include the Naseem Al-Bahr naval exercise and the Al Nagah army exercise. The goal of these drills is to improve teamwork and strengthen their ability to respond to regional threats.
A Strategic Partnership in a Key Location
Oman’s location is crucial—it sits in the North Arabian Sea and near the Persian Gulf, close to the important Strait of Hormuz. This waterway is one of the most critical passages for global oil transport. Both Oman and India have a shared interest in keeping the region stable. Retired Indian Navy Captain Sarabjeet S Parmar explained that close cooperation between their military forces boosts security and improves how well they work together.
Oman is also part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has built trust with India by working together on military and security issues, including counterterrorism and handling extradition requests for criminals, says Anil Wadhwa, a former Indian ambassador. Oman values India’s role in keeping the region secure, particularly in combating piracy and protecting key shipping routes.
India Gains Access to a Strategic Port
As part of India’s strategy to have a bigger presence in the Indian Ocean, it has secured access to the port of Duqm in Oman. This port is vital for India because it allows Indian military ships to refuel and get supplies, extending their reach in the North Arabian Sea. Duqm also serves as a key location for India’s naval operations, complementing Oman’s Salalah port.
Ambassador Wadhwa emphasized that Duqm is an asset for India, boosting its strategic stance and helping with joint military operations and rescue missions in the Gulf of Oman. He also highlighted how Oman acknowledges India’s experience in fighting piracy, making it a valuable partner in the region.
Protecting Key Sea Lanes
One of India’s key defense strategies is to protect Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC), which are essential for transporting oil and other goods. India collaborates with nations like Oman that offer turnaround facilities for naval ships, helping to prevent any single nation from dominating the region. Wadhwa explained that Oman’s position at the entrance of key sea lanes makes it an ideal partner for India.
Former ambassador Talmiz Ahmad added that Oman has been a vital military ally for India for decades. This relationship began to solidify in the 1990s when Oman’s Sultan asked India to help strengthen the country’s security. Since then, the two countries have worked closely together, especially in maritime security.
A Shared History and Economic Ties
The relationship between India and Oman goes back centuries, surviving even through the British colonial era. India’s Gujarati and Keralan communities have long had commercial and cultural ties with Oman. Today, India’s influence in the region is stronger than ever, especially as British power has declined.
India’s partnership with Oman extends beyond military cooperation. The two countries also work together economically. For example, Oman provides gas to the Oman India Fertiliser Company in Sur, which sells all its urea production to India.
Duqm, Oman’s strategic port just north of Salalah, has great potential due to its open location in the Indian Ocean, avoiding the congestion and high costs of the Persian Gulf. While development at Duqm has faced some challenges, including the pandemic and Oman’s limited resources compared to the UAE, it remains a valuable asset for both India and Oman.
The Future of the India-Oman Partnership
As military exercises like Eastern Bridge continue, the partnership between India and Oman is set to grow even stronger. Both nations recognize the importance of working together to ensure security in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf region. With India’s expanding presence in Oman’s strategic ports and their shared commitment to regional stability, this alliance will continue to play a pivotal role in maintaining peace and protecting vital sea routes.
