Source: PIB
The Key Highlights
- The first Indo-Qatari joint naval Exercise Za’ir-Al-Bahr was held in Doha
- Named Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the sea), the five-day exercise is being carried out to strengthen co-operation and enhance interoperability between the two navies.
- The Exercise will include a three-day Harbour Phase and Two days Sea Phase.
- The Sea Phase will include a Tactical Maritime Exercise involving the domains of Surface Action, Air Defence, Maritime Surveillance and Interdiction Operation and anti-terrorism.
- Indian Navy was represented by Guided Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand
- Qatari Emiri Naval was represented by Patrol Aircraft P8-I. The P8-I Maritime Patrol Aircraft incorporates the latest technology for Maritime Surveillance.
- The Qatari Emiri Naval Forces participating in this Exercise include the versatile Anti-Ship Missile equipped Barzan Class Fast Attack Craft along with Rafale multi-task fighter aircraft.
Significance
The inaugural edition of the Bilateral Maritime Exercise between the two navies would further strengthen the robust defence co-operation between the two countries, especially in the fight against terrorism, maritime piracy, and maritime security.