Oman — Military & Security

Oman, a key player in the Gulf region, boasts a robust military and security framework centered around the Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF). The SAF is tasked with defending the nation, maintaining internal security, and safeguarding the monarchy. Notably, Oman has a long-standing military collaboration with the United Kingdom, dating back to the 18th century. This partnership continues today with a joint training facility in Oman, utilized by both Omani and British forces. Additionally, the US has enhanced its access to Oman's strategic Al Duqm Port since 2019, strengthening military cooperation agreements from as far back as 1980. Oman's military expenditures have seen a gradual decrease from 11% of GDP in 2020 to 5.5% in 2023, reflecting strategic budgeting priorities. Furthermore, Oman plays a vital role in regional security through its participation in the US-led Combined Maritime Forces, ensuring safe navigation and combating piracy in critical maritime areas like the Strait of Hormuz.

Military - note

The Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF) are tasked with the defense of the nation, the maintenance of internal security, and the protection of the monarchy. They engage in training exercises with international partners, including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The SAF has a historical security collaboration with the British military that dates back to the 18th century. Currently, the SAF and British forces operate a joint training facility in Oman, where the British military also utilizes the infrastructure at Al Duqm Port. In 2019, the US gained access to this port, building upon earlier military cooperation agreements established in 2014, 2010, and 1980. Oman permits other countries, including China, to utilize certain maritime facilities as well. Furthermore, the SAF is a component of the Peninsula Shield Forces, a collective military unit formed by GCC nations aimed at preserving security and stability in the region.

Oman's naval forces carry out maritime security operations along the extensive coastline, which includes patrolling activities, ensuring freedom of navigation through the vital Strait of Hormuz, and combating piracy and smuggling. Oman is also involved in the US-led multinational Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), which executes maritime security operations in regional waters through various multinational task forces (2025).

Military expenditures

Military Expenditures 2020

11% of GDP (2020 est.)

Military Expenditures 2021

8% of GDP (2021 est.)

Military Expenditures 2022

5.5% of GDP (2022 est.)

Military Expenditures 2023

5.5% of GDP (2023 est.)

Military Expenditures 2024

6% of GDP (2024 est.)

Military and security forces

Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF): Royal Army of Oman (RAO), Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO), Royal Guard of Oman (RGO), Sultan's Special Forces

Royal Oman Police (ROP): Civil Defense, Immigration, Infrastructure Security Police, Coast Guard Police, Special Security Police, Special Task Force (2024)

Military service age and obligation

The age range for voluntary military service is 18-25 for both men and women; there is no conscription (2025).

Military equipment inventories and acquisitions

The inventory of the SAF comprises a combination of older and some advanced weapon systems sourced from diverse suppliers, notably the UK and the US. Additional suppliers include China, various EU nations, South Africa, and Türkiye (2025).

Military and security service personnel strengths

There are around 40,000 active members in the Sultan's Armed Forces (2025).

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