Muscat: The annual strategic exercise 'Decision Making-13' commenced today at the National Defence College (NDC) situated within the Academy for Strategic and Defence Studies. The exercise, which will run until 7 July, involves participants from the 13th course coming from various military, security, and civil units. It also includes experts and advisors from military and security bodies, ministries, government authorities, and the directing staff of the National Defence College. According to Oman News Agency, 'Decision Making-13' is designed as a practical application of the theoretical and academic knowledge participants have accumulated during their course. It incorporates the latest training techniques across national, regional, and international levels, merging academic skills with the general curriculum plan and academic courses of the term. Rear Admiral Ali Abdullah Al Shidi, Commandant of the National Defence College and Exercise Director, extended a warm welcome to the representatives of the partic ipating entities. He highlighted the importance of leveraging the exercise to tackle strategic issues and events effectively, using the procedures and strategies taught during the 13th National Defence course. The primary objective of 'Decision Making-13' is to enhance participants' strategic-level decision-making skills, analyze significant strategic issues within hypothetical scenarios, and achieve a balance in using state power elements to fulfill national interests. The exercise also aims to harmonize the use of international power instruments and develop strategic thinking through strategic analysis tools. Rear Admiral Ali Abdullah Al Shidi remarked that the exercise is a critical practical phase in the course's academic program. It translates the theoretical knowledge and skills acquired by participants into practical applications, simulating contemporary challenges and variables. The exercise further aims to enhance the capability to assess situations, anticipate repercussions, and coordinate efforts among various state institutions, thereby strengthening institutional integration and reinforcing sound strategic decision-making foundations to serve national interests.