The Peace Winds 2026 exercise between the Saudi and Omani navies has commenced
The joint bilateral naval exercise “ Winds of Peace 2026 ,” bringing together the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and their counterparts in the Royal Navy of Oman, has commenced in the Sultanate of Oman. This exercise is a strategic step aimed at strengthening joint military cooperation and consolidating security and stability in the region, with broad participation from naval vessels and special forces units.
Strategic goals and unification of concepts
The exercise commander, Rear Admiral Mohammed bin Ayed Al-Otaibi, affirmed that “Winds of Peace 2026” is not merely a routine training exercise, but a vital platform for exchanging accumulated military expertise between the two brotherly nations in the fields of naval operations and maritime security. The exercise primarily aims to unify operational concepts during the preparation, planning, and execution phases, thereby enhancing the two navies' ability to work together with high efficiency to monitor and protect international shipping lanes and ensure the safe flow of global trade.
Advanced combat scenarios and unique capabilities
The exercise involves the application of complex operational scenarios simulating real combat environments and modern maritime threats. A strike force comprising ten advanced warships, supported by naval aviation helicopters, and two elite naval special forces units are participating. The Royal Air Force of Oman is also participating, providing air cover and operational support, which contributes to raising the combat readiness and professionalism of all participating forces.
Location importance and regional dimension
This exercise is of paramount importance given its strategic geographical location in the Sea of Oman. This region is a vital artery for global trade and energy transport, making its security a top priority for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. The exercise reflects the deep historical and fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, and underscores their shared commitment to protecting regional and international interests and deterring any threats to the security of waterways.
Exercise and operational integration phases
The exercise commander explained that His Majesty's ships will conduct a series of intensive naval maneuvers in the waters of the Sea of Oman, including live-fire missile and ammunition exercises, and joint naval operations drills. Simultaneously, special naval security units will conduct specialized training at the Said bin Sultan Naval Base, encompassing boarding, search, and landing operations.
It is worth noting that the Saudi and Omani naval forces completed the first phase of this exercise in April 2025 at King Faisal Naval Base in the Kingdom's Western Fleet. That phase focused on planning aspects and testing operational plans using advanced simulation systems, paving the way for the current field exercise, which translates theoretical planning into tangible operational reality.
