What happened
On October 23, 2025, the Indian Army and the Royal Army of Oman concluded the 3rd Army-to-Army Staff Talks (AAST) in New Delhi, held from October 22–23. The discussions focused on expanding joint military exercises, enhancing training collaboration, and developing new avenues for partnership under the Defence Cooperation Plan 2026. Both sides reviewed progress since the 5th India–Oman Joint Military Exercise Al Najah, held in 2024, and emphasized continued cooperation in capability development and professional military education.
Why it matters to India
The talks reaffirm India’s growing strategic engagement with West Asia and highlight Oman’s role as a key partner in India’s extended maritime neighbourhood. Strengthened military coordination complements New Delhi’s focus on defence diplomacy and regional security cooperation in the Indian Ocean. By deepening interoperability, knowledge sharing, and technology-driven joint exercises, India reinforces its vision of a stable, secure, and cooperative Indo-West Asian region aligned with its broader strategic objectives.