The Indian Navy's warship INS Surat has arrived at Muscat, Oman, to participate in the 15th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise Naseem Al Bahr, also known as Sea Breeze. The exercise will be followed by a Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) involving the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.
INS Surat reached Muscat on November 8, 2026. The engagement is intended to strengthen maritime cooperation, improve operational interoperability and deepen professional relations between the two navies.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: INS Surat arrived in Oman for the 15th edition of the bilateral naval exercise Naseem Al Bahr.
Location: Oman.
Authority/Organisation: Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman.
Action Taken: The navies are conducting professional engagements during harbour and sea phases, followed by a Coordinated Patrol.
- Impact: The exercise is expected to strengthen maritime cooperation, operational interoperability and regional naval engagement.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the exercise will include activities during both harbour and sea phases. These engagements will involve cross-deck visits, operational interactions and sporting events, giving personnel from both navies opportunities to exchange professional experiences and share best practices.
The interactions are expected to improve mutual understanding of operational procedures and strengthen the ability of the two maritime forces to work together.
Following the bilateral exercise, the two navies will undertake a Coordinated Patrol. Such engagements form part of India's wider maritime cooperation with regional partners and contribute to sustained naval interaction in strategically important waters.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
India's maritime interests are closely connected to the security and stability of the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region. Oman occupies an important geographical position near major international maritime routes. Regular naval cooperation with Oman can strengthen professional relationships, improve coordination and support regional maritime engagement. Exercises such as Naseem Al Bahr also provide opportunities for naval personnel to exchange operational knowledge and understand each other's procedures. The subsequent Coordinated Patrol adds an operational dimension to the bilateral engagement, although its specific activities have not been detailed in the announcement.
The deployment also reflects the longstanding defence and maritime relationship between India and Oman. The two countries maintain cooperation across several areas, including defence dialogue, military exchanges and maritime security.
The visit is aligned with India's MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The initiative emphasises cooperation with maritime partners to support regional security and sustainable growth.
The latest naval engagement also builds on the momentum generated during the 13th India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation Committee meeting held on November 24, 2025.
Oman's geographical position along the Arabian Sea gives the partnership particular importance for India's maritime interests. Cooperation between the two navies supports regular professional engagement in a region connected to international shipping and energy trade.
However, the Ministry of Defence announcement does not specify the number of participating personnel, the detailed operational scenarios or the duration of the subsequent coordinated patrol. These details should not be assumed until officially confirmed.
The 15th edition of Naseem Al Bahr highlights the continued importance both countries attach to maritime engagement and defence cooperation in the wider Indian Ocean region.
