In a momentous diplomatic development, Saudi Arabian troops have arrived in India for their inaugural bilateral army exercise, titled "Sada Tanseeq," translating to "Forever in Coordination" in Arabic. This landmark event signifies the expanding diplomatic relations between India and Saudi Arabia, not only showcasing military cooperation but also emphasizing the significance of friendship.
The exercise is unfolding in Rajasthan, specifically in the town of Mahajan, situated approximately 280 kilometers from the Pakistan border. Mahajan hosts the Indian Army's specialized desert warfare range, providing an ideal backdrop for diverse military maneuvers.
A 45-member contingent from the Royal Saudi Land Forces, alongside a corresponding team from India’s Mechanized Infantry, known as the Brigade of Guards, is participating in the exercise. Commencing on January 29, the event is slated to last nearly two weeks, focusing on a spectrum of military tactics, including cordon and search operations, house intervention drills, and live-fire exercises.
The origins of this military collaboration can be traced back to September of the preceding year when Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) visited India post the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Extensive meetings between MBS and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the visit resulted in agreements to enhance cooperation in trade and investment, energy, defense, and security.
Evolution of military ties -
This bilateral army exercise symbolizes the culmination of a developing military engagement between India and Saudi Arabia. The relationship gained momentum in 2021 with the Indian Navy dispatching INS Kochi to Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, in 2023, naval drills expanded, featuring India deploying two warships, emphasizing sea dominance and anti-piracy measures.
The deepening mutual trust is evident in the establishment of a Joint Committee on Defense Cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia. This engagement positions Saudi Arabia as a significant defense partner for India, transcending beyond mere military drills.
This development aligns with a broader trend of India strengthening military ties with nations in West Asia. Earlier this month, troops from the UAE participated in drills in the same desert region of Rajasthan, reinforcing the strategic importance of the area. The presence of Saudi troops in India sends a clear message to the Islamic world that New Delhi has earned the trust of nations in West Asia.
The historical ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, characterized by Pakistani troops stationed in Saudi Arabia for decades, have undergone a clear shift. The ongoing military collaboration between India and Saudi Arabia represents a departure from traditional alliances, signaling a new phase in the geopolitical landscape of the region.
As India and Saudi Arabia embark on their inaugural bilateral army exercise, it not only underscores their growing military cooperation but also highlights the evolving dynamics in the broader West Asian region. The deepening ties between these nations serve as a testament to the trust they have built, with potential implications for regional security and stability.
0 Comments