Saudi Arabia and Oman: Missile firing exercises in the Peace Winds 2026 exercise
In a move reflecting the depth of military and strategic cooperation among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and their counterparts, the Royal Navy of Oman, conducted live-fire missile and ammunition exercises as part of the joint bilateral naval exercise “Winds of Peace 2026.” These maneuvers took place in the territorial waters of the Sultanate of Oman, with the high-level participation of Lieutenant General Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Gharibi, Chief of Staff of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces, and Rear Admiral Saif bin Nasser Al-Rahbi, Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman.
Details of the maneuvers and combat capabilities
The exercise featured the practical application of several complex operational scenarios simulating modern naval warfare. This iteration of the exercise was distinguished by its broad participation, including 10 advanced warships, a number of naval aviation helicopters, and two platoons of special naval security units. The training focused on enhancing live-fire skills, testing the effectiveness of weapons systems, conducting maritime interdiction operations, and protecting vital maritime shipping lanes passing through the region.
Strategic and security importance
The “Winds of Peace” maneuvers are of paramount importance given their sensitive geographical location, as the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia oversee waterways that are among the world’s most vital energy and trade arteries. This exercise aims to enhance the readiness of the two countries’ naval forces to secure these waterways against any potential threats, whether conventional or unconventional, and to ensure the stability of international maritime traffic in the Arabian Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
Strengthening joint Gulf cooperation
This exercise is part of a series of joint exercises aimed at unifying military concepts and exchanging combat expertise among the armed forces of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. “Winds of Peace 2026” reflects the advanced level of coordination and integration between Riyadh and Muscat, and underscores the two countries’ commitment to joint action to achieve security and prosperity in the region. This type of training also contributes to enhancing the combat readiness of naval crews and developing their ability to operate as a unified team in the face of various maritime challenges.
In conclusion, the successful execution of the missile and live ammunition firing exercise is tangible evidence of the high level of readiness of the naval forces in both countries, and a clear message confirming the ability to deter any threat to the security and stability of the region.
