LONDON: The Royal Saudi Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman on Monday launched their Winds of Peace 2026 naval training as part of efforts to strengthen military cooperation.

Brig. Gen. Mohammed bin Ayed Al-Otaibi said that the drills aimed to enhance maritime security by exchanging experiences, unifying concepts, and improving the navies’ roles in monitoring and protecting maritime navigation lines.

Al-Otaibi, the Saudi exercise commander, added that the naval drills featured advanced maritime operational scenarios involving 10 combat ships, helicopters, two platoons of special maritime security units, and the Royal Air Force of Oman.

Saudi warships, including HMS Al-Diriyah, are participating in naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman, while forces will conduct special maritime maneuvers at the Said bin Sultan Naval Base. Forces are to conduct vertical maritime flight exercises, along with rocket and live ammunition shooting exercises, Al-Otaibi said.

The naval forces of Saudi Arabia and Oman conducted maritime exercises in April 2025 at King Faisal Naval Base in Jeddah, located on the Red Sea, reported the Saudi Press Agency.