RAO Celebrates Centenary of Sultan of Oman Artillery’s Inception.

Muscat: The Royal Army of Oman (RAO) today celebrated the centenary of the establishment of the Sultan of Oman's Artillery during a ceremony held under the patronage of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs. According to Oman News Agency, HH Sayyid Shihab was received upon his arrival at the headquarters of the Sultan of Oman's Artillery by Maj.Gen Mattar bin Salim Al Balushi, RAO Commander, Brigadier Saif bin Said Al Rashidi, Commander of the Sultan of Oman's Artillery, and senior officers. The ceremony began with the playing of the Royal Anthem, and the Guard of Honour saluted HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik. Personnel of the Sultan of Oman's Artillery staged a military infantry parade, while the RAO band performed musical pieces to mark the centenary. The Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs was then presented with a visual presentation detailing the inception and history of the Sultan of Oman's Artillery, covering its development and modernisation plans, military equipment, advanced defence systems, and the training of its personnel. Following this, the Sultan of Oman's Artillery showcased a field and air show, featuring historical and modern weapons and equipment, including cannons, vehicles, and artillery equipment. This exhibition highlighted the national roles and duties undertaken by the Sultan of Oman's Artillery in alignment with modern military technologies. The ceremony concluded with the formation of a closing tableau on the field, symbolizing the centenary of the artillery's establishment. Participants chanted in unison, expressing loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. HH Sayyid Shihab and the attendees also toured a permanent exhibition showcasing the artillery's history, development, achievements, and national contributions. The event was attended by the Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence, the Chief of Staff of the Sultan's Armed Forces (SAF), commanders from SAF and other military and security services, senior and retired officer s, government officials from A'Dakhiliyah Governorate, and RAO personnel.