The activities of the Joint Gulf Naval Exercise “Ittihad 2025” concluded Monday in the State of Kuwait.

The exercise was hosted by the Mohammed Al Ahmad Naval Base with the participation of the Naval Forces of the GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain). The exercise commenced on 1 December 2025.

The exercise activities included the execution of live-fire missile and cannon exercises, and a number of joint naval drills and operations, in addition to accompanying programs that contributed to enhancing integration and unified military action among the participating forces.

This exercise, which embodied the depth of defense cooperation among GCC states and the unity of objective and destiny, demonstrated the technical professionalism and high capability for joint action of the Gulf naval forces in different operational environments.

The exercise serves as one of the strategic training drives aimed at enhancing the regional sea defense system, protecting national interests in the economic waters of the GCC states, raising the level of combat readiness, enhancing joint maritime security and unifying operational concepts through realistic field scenarios that simulate potential challenges.

In another development, the Kuwaiti Navy patrol boat Garoh and the Indian Navy ship Sarthak conducted a joint maritime exercise focused on firefighting operations and the protection of logistical assets in regional waters.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Kuwaiti military said the drill forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security, enhance operational readiness and reinforce cooperation with international partners.

The exercise also reflects the commitment of both navies to safeguarding sea lanes, supporting freedom of navigation and contributing to stability in the maritime environment. (Sources: Oman News Agency (ONA); Kuwait News Agency (KUNA); Photo © ONA)