Vantage | What India-Saudi military exercise is telling the Islamic world

In a significant diplomatic development, troops from Saudi Arabia have landed in India for their first-ever bilateral army exercise, named “Sada Tanseeq”, meaning “Forever in Coordination” in Arabic. This landmark event is a result of the growing diplomatic ties between India and Saudi Arabia, showcasing not only military cooperation but also emphasizing the importance of friendship.

The exercise is taking place in Rajasthan, in the small town of Mahajan, which is situated about 280 kilometres from the Pakistan border. Mahajan is home to the Indian Army’s special desert warfare range, providing an ideal setting for a wide range of military manoeuvers. The exercise involves a 45-member contingent from the Royal Saudi Land Forces and a corresponding team from India’s Mechanised Infantry, known as the Brigade of Guards. The exercise that commenced on the 29 January, the exercise is scheduled to continue for nearly two weeks, focussing on various military tactics, including cordon and search operations, house intervention drills, and live-fire exercises. The roots of this military collaboration trace back to September of the previous year when Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman (MBS) visited India following the G20 Summit hosted in New Delhi. During the visit, extensive meetings between MBS and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to agreements to expand cooperation in trade and investment, energy and defence and security. Evolution of military ties This bilateral army exercise marks the culmination of evolving military engagement between India and Saudi Arabia. The relationship began to strengthen in 2021 when the Indian Navy sent INS Kochi to Saudi Arabia. Subsequently, in 2023, naval drills expanded with 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, with the relationship extending beyond mere military drills. This development fits into a broader trend of India strengthening military ties with West Asian nations. 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 gained the trust of nations in West Asia. The historic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, characterised by Pakistani troops stationed in Saudi Arabia for decades, have undergone a clear shift. The current military collaboration between India and Saudi Arabia represents a departure from the traditional alliances, signalling a new phase in the geopolitical landscape of the region. As India and Saudi Arabia engage in their first-ever bilateral army exercise, it not only highlights their growing military cooperation but also underscores the evolving dynamics in the broader West Asian region. The deepening ties between these nations are a testament to the trust they have built, with potential implications for regional security and stability. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.