Britain announces a new base in Oman during joint military exercise

Britain will open a new military base in Oman next year, sending hundreds of troops to the sultanate in the same month it is due to leave the EU.

The announcement was made by Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson as he watched a joint military exercise between the British and Omani armed forces. The base will also be used as a training centre for Omani troops.

The announcement comes two years after the countries signed a comprehensive military training agreement, and only weeks after Mr Williamson succeeded in securing an extra £1 billion (Dh4.77bn) in funding for the military in last month’s budget.

It is due to open next March and Mr Williamson said it would strengthen Britain’s regional security commitment.

“I hope the symbolism of this Omani-British base opening as we exit the EU isn’t lost on people,” he said.

In the exercise, Operation Saif Sarea 3, 5,500 British troops trained alongside almost 70,000 Omani soldiers. British tanks, fighter jets and warships were sent to the Gulf for the five-week training exercise. Shortly after the announcement, Mr Williamson took a ride in a Challenger tank. Speaking on board HMS Albion, he said the base and the exercise disproved the claim that Britain’s departure from the EU indicated a wider withdrawal from international affairs.

“This is the largest military exercise that is going on in the world at present,” Mr Williamson said. “Britain isn’t retreating from the world. We are stepping out.”

In a tweet, Mr Williamson thanked Omani authorities and noted the close ties between the two countries’ armed forces.

“I was delighted to spend time in Oman and I thank the Royal Omani Army, Navy and Air Force for their gracious hospitality,” he posted. “Saif Sarea embodies the close relationship between Omani and British forces and I look forward to strengthening the important bond between our two nations.”

Last year, Britain signed a deal with Oman allowing Royal Navy ships to use the Arabian Sea port of Duqm.

The new base will give Britain a permanent presence in the country for the first time since 1971.