Roar of the sea: Naval Exercise between Qatar and India

A three-day naval exercise, Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) is being conducted between November 17 and November 21, 2019, between the Indian and Qatar Naval Forces. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability between the naval forces.

Highlights of the Naval Exercise 

• From the Indian side, the Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand and Patrol Aircraft P8-I along with Rafale aircraft are to attend the exercise
• The exercise is being held for the first time.
• Both the P8 and Rafale are newly procured defense machines of India.
• The exercise will include Air defense, Surface action, interdiction operation, maritime surveillance and anti-terrorism
• The Qatar Emiri Naval Forces participating in the exercise include Anti-Ship Missile equipped Barzan Class Fast Attack craft and Rafale aircraft

Significance

The geographical location of Qatar is significant for the country being located near the major petroleum deposits in the Persian Gulf. Also, the joint exercises will help in adding protection to the Indian ships sailing through the region. Around 110 billion USD of Indian trade happens through the region. As per 2018, it includes 50 billion USD of imports and 60 billion USD of exports.

Defense Relations

The first diplomatic defense agreement between India and Qatar was signed in 2008. According to the agreement the countries permit annual defense training. However, an exercise between the countries is being conducted for the first time.