Dammam – Royal Saudi Navy is preparing to hold exercises “Gulf Shield 1” in the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Oman Sea as of next week.

Royal Saudi Navy Commander Abdullah al-Sultan said that “Gulf Shield 1” will include ships, planes, marines and other personnel taking part.

Sultan said that “Gulf Shield 1” is part of a series of exercises the fleet has carried out in the area aiming to raise combat readiness, gain the necessary skills, and improve ability to perform the essential leadership services.

The maneuvers aim to improve skills for defending the country’s borders, protecting sea lanes “and to deter any aggression or potential terrorist operations,” added the navy commander.

He also pointed out that the maneuvers reflect the exceptional performance of the Royal Navy that was possible because of the guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Retired Navy Commander Amer al-Ameri said that Saudi Arabia owns the best navy in the area. He stated that through “Gulf Shield 1”, Saudi Arabia is sending political, military and security messages.

Ameri pointed out that the maneuvers will be executed in the international waters of the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Oman Sea stressing that it is the right of Saudi Arabia to defend its territories.

He added that Saudi Arabia has the ability to be present in the waters if needed.