Muscat: Today, the Royal Army of Oman (RAO) commemorated the centenary of the founding of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery with a solemn ceremony, graced by the patronage of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, the Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs.
Upon his arrival at the headquarters of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery, HH Sayyid Shihab was warmly received by Maj.Gen Mattar bin Salim Al Balushi, the Commander of the Royal Artillery, Brigadier Saif bin Said Al Rashidi, the Commander of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery, and other senior officers.
The event commenced with the playing of the Royal Anthem, followed by a salute from the Guard of Honour to HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik. Subsequently, personnel of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery conducted a military infantry parade, complemented by the Royal Artillery Band's performance of various musical pieces to celebrate the centenary of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery.
Following this, the Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs observed a visual presentation detailing the inception and history of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery since its establishment in 1924, including its development and modernization plans, military equipment, and advanced defense systems, as well as the rigorous training and qualifications of its personnel to fulfill national duties and tasks.
The ceremony then featured a display of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery’s capabilities, including a field and air show, showcasing both historical and contemporary weapons and equipment, including cannons, vehicles, and artillery gear, all of which play a crucial role in the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery’s mission to stay at the forefront of military technology.
As the event drew to a close, the Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs and the attendees observed the formation of a closing tableau on the field, symbolizing the centenary of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery. The ceremony concluded with a collective chant of “Long live His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Supreme Commander.”
HH Sayyid Shihab and the distinguished guests then explored the permanent exhibition on display, which offers a comprehensive overview of the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery’s journey, highlighting its historical milestones, significant achievements, and its substantial contribution to national defense.
The ceremony was attended by the Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence, the Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF), commanders of SAF and other military and security services, senior and retired officers of SAF and other military and security services, government officials from A’Dakhiliyah Governorate, and personnel of the RAO Sultan of Oman’s Artillery.
