Winds of Peace 2026: Saudi and Oman Strengthen Naval Cooperation
In a significant demonstration of regional partnership, the Royal Saudi Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman have commenced the “Winds of Peace 2026” naval training exercise. Launched on Monday, these drills underscore a concerted effort to strengthen military cooperation and enhance collective maritime security in vital Gulf waters.
According to Brig. Gen. Mohammed bin Ayed Al-Otaibi, the Saudi exercise commander, the primary goal is to bolster the security of maritime navigation. This is achieved by exchanging expertise, unifying operational concepts, and improving the naval forces’ capabilities in monitoring and protecting crucial sea lanes.
A Display of Advanced Joint Readiness
The exercise features a robust display of combined naval power. The training involves 10 combat ships, helicopters, and two platoons of special maritime security units, with support from the Royal Air Force of Oman. Saudi participation includes warships such as the HMS Al-Diriyah.
Forces will execute advanced maritime operational scenarios from the Said bin Sultan Naval Base in Oman. The drills will encompass a range of complex maneuvers, including vertical maritime flight operations, rocket exercises, and live ammunition shooting drills, ensuring both navies are prepared for a variety of potential challenges.
Building on a Foundation of Cooperation
“Winds of Peace 2026” continues a pattern of growing collaboration between the two neighboring Gulf states. Just last April, their naval forces conducted joint maritime exercises at the King Faisal Naval Base in Jeddah, on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia.
This ongoing series of exercises reflects a deep, shared commitment to stability. By regularly training together, Saudi Arabia and Oman are not only honing their individual skills but also forging a seamless, interoperable defense partnership. This cooperation is essential for safeguarding the strategic waterways that are lifelines for regional and global trade, ensuring that the winds blowing across the Gulf are indeed winds of peace and shared security.
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