Indo-Oman military exercise begins in Himachal

Shimla: A 14-day joint military training between India and Oman started in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh on Monday, an Indian defence official said.

The joint training exercise of the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman, named Al Nagah-II 2017, commenced with the opening ceremony at Bakloh in Chamba district, defence spokesperson Lt Col Manish Mehta said.

He said the training contingents comprised platoon strength troops from both the armies. Senior military observers of both the countries would be witnessing the validation phase of the exercise.

The second edition of the joint exercise is in continuation of a series of joint exercises between both the armies. The first one was held in Oman in January 2015.

The aim of the joint exercise is to acquaint both forces with each other`s operating procedures in the backdrop of counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism environment as also to enhance the existing military relationship between the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman, an official statement 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, it added.