Page "Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces" Paragraph 25

Qaboos had attended the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and served as an officer in the British Army with the 1st Bn the Cameronians ( Scottish Rifles ).

His outlook was far wider and more liberal than his father's.

He immediately instituted major social and military reforms throughout the country.

As part of a " hearts and minds " campaign to win over the population of Dhofar, an amnesty was declared for surrendered rebels.

Former rebels formed Firqat irregular units, trained and assisted by teams from the Special Air Service.

The Firqats eventually numbered 1800, and deprived the rebels of local support in their home areas.