The Minister of Defense for Saudi Arabia, Prince Khalid bin Salman met with India’s Minister of State for Defense and Tourism, Ajay Bhatt, in Riyadh on February 6 to discuss bilateral relations, defense cooperation, and various topics of mutual interest.
“We examined our nations’ friendly ties and potential avenues for defense collaboration. Additionally, we deliberated on several shared concerns,” Prince Khalid posted on X, previously Twitter.
The gathering was also attended by officials from both countries.
India and Saudi Arabia hold first-ever joint military exercise
The development was reported after India and Saudi Arabia initiated Exercise ‘Sada Tanseeq’, their first-ever bilateral military exercise, in Rajasthan, Northern India.
The Exercise that began on January 29, 2024, is scheduled to run until February 10.
The exercise aims to enhance interoperability in semi-desert terrain, facilitating the exchange of best practices and techniques for sub-conventional environments.
Riyadh’s contingent comprises the Royal Saudi Land Forces, while New Delhi’s unit consists of soldiers from the Brigade of the Guards (Mechanised Infantry), each comprising 45 personnel.
Sada Tanseeq drills will include establishing mobile vehicle check posts, cordon and search operations, house interventions, reflex shooting, and sniper exercises.
Aligned with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, focusing on restoring international peace and security, the exercise is scheduled to conclude on February 10th.
First-ever drill with UAE
Earlier this year, India’s Armed Forces also conducted their first-ever exercise with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Named Exercise Desert Cyclone, the joint endeavor was specifically designed to bolster interoperability in sub-conventional operations, with a particular emphasis on combat in built-up urban areas.
Over two weeks, a series of meticulously planned drills took place, ranging from the establishment of joint surveillance centers to intensive cordon and search operations, as well as heliborne exercises.
These strategic collaborations underscored India’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral relationships and enhancing its military capabilities through international engagements.
Notably, a recent ranking positioned the Indian military as the world’s fourth strongest, surpassing established military powers such as South Korea and the United Kingdom. This recognition not only reaffirmed India’s position as a formidable force in the region but also highlighted its dedication to advancing military cooperation and readiness.