Muscat | BETH

The joint bilateral naval exercise “Riyah Al-Salam 2026” officially commenced today in the Sultanate of Oman, with the participation of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and the Royal Navy of Oman, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen military and defense cooperation between the two countries.

Commander of the exercise, Rear Admiral Mohammed Al-Otaibi, stated that the drills aim to enhance the exchange of expertise in naval operations and maritime security, unify planning and execution concepts, and reinforce the role of naval forces in securing sea lines of communication and strengthening regional maritime security.

He explained that the exercise includes advanced operational scenarios simulating modern naval warfare, involving ten combat vessels, rotary-wing aircraft, two special naval security units, as well as participation from the Royal Air Force of Oman—contributing to heightened operational readiness of the participating forces.

Al-Otaibi noted that Royal Saudi Naval vessels will conduct maneuvers in the Sea of Oman, while special naval security unit training will take place at Said bin Sultan Naval Base. The exercise includes joint maritime operations, special forces drills, naval aviation training, and live-fire missile and ammunition exercises.

He added that the first phase of the exercise was conducted in April 2025 at King Faisal Naval Base of the Western Fleet, focusing on mission planning and preparation, execution of operational scenarios, and testing and evaluating plans using advanced simulation systems.