India and Saudi Arabia have successfully concluded their first joint military exercise today at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, India. The exercise, named Sada Tanseeq, which means cooperation in Arabic, was inaugurated on January 29 and lasted for 12 days. The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and the Royal Saudi Land Force, and to exchange best practices and combat skills in sub-conventional operations under a UN mandate.
The exercise involved 45 soldiers from each side, who underwent rigorous training and validation in various aspects of counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations. The exercise was conducted in two phases: the first phase focused on combat conditioning and tactical training, while the second phase consisted of physical exercises and live firing. The exercise also included mobile check posts, cordon and search operations, house interventions, reflex shooting, and sniper exercises.
A milestone in the bilateral defense relations between India and Saudi Arabia
Sada Tanseeq is a significant achievement in the bilateral defense relations between India and Saudi Arabia, which have witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years. The two countries have elevated their ties to a strategic partnership in 2019, and have expanded their cooperation in various fields, such as trade, energy, investment, security, and counter-terrorism. The two countries have also signed several agreements and memoranda of understanding to facilitate and institutionalize their defense cooperation.
Sada Tanseeq is also a reflection of the shared vision and common interests of the two countries in the peace and stability of the region and the world. The two countries have expressed their support for each other on various regional and international issues, such as the fight against terrorism, the Afghan peace process, the Iran nuclear deal, and the Abraham Accords. The two countries have also reiterated their commitment to the two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
A harbinger of more joint exercises and defense cooperation in the future
Sada Tanseeq is expected to be a harbinger of more joint exercises and defense cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia in the future. The two countries have agreed to hold the exercise regularly, and to explore other areas and levels of military engagement. The two countries have also expressed their interest in enhancing their defense trade and technology transfer, and in collaborating on defense manufacturing and innovation.
Sada Tanseeq is also likely to have a positive impact on the regional security and balance of power in the Middle East and South Asia. The exercise will demonstrate the capabilities and readiness of the two forces to deal with common threats and challenges. The exercise will also send a message to the other actors in the region, such as Pakistan, Iran, and China, that India and Saudi Arabia are determined to protect their interests and values.
