The Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF)

The Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) represent a cornerstone of Oman’s modern development. The creation and development of the SAF and the Royal Guard of Oman (RGO) play an important role in the defense of the nation and the protection of its achievements.

In developing SAF and the RGO, the Sultanate focused first and foremost on intensive training rather than an intensive arms programme. Although it sought to make the most efficient and appropriate use of its modern, advanced weapons and equipment, Oman recognizes that a highly trained and proficient body of manpower was its most important asset.

The SAF’s three main arms – the Royal Army of Oman (RAO), the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) and the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) – along with the RGO, form a modern, well-organized and well-equipped fighting force that enjoys a full range of integrated modern weaponry and high-level combat proficiency.

The Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF)’s modern weaponry and equipment includes tanks, armoured personnel carriers, missile systems, armoured cars, advanced fighter aircraft, helicopters, landing craft, warships and gunboats. Its bases are linked by a sophisticated command and control system.