The Battle of Mirbat took place within the context of the Dhofar Rebellion, an insurgency that began in the 1960s against the Sultan of Oman, which was broadly fueled by leftist ideologies and grievances over administrative issues. The Popular Front for the Liberation of Oman (PFLO) was one of the leading groups fighting for the overthrow of Sultan Said bin Taimur. On July 19, 1972, the rebels launched a determined attack on the garrison at Mirbat, which was vital for controlling the surrounding region. The SAS had been secretly deployed to Oman to support the government forces in their fight against the insurgency.During the battle, about 40 SAS soldiers faced a force of around 300 PFLO fighters. The SAS employed their expertise in guerrilla warfare, demonstrating exceptional skill in maneuvering and engaging the insurgents. With limited resources and through intense firefight, they successfully defended the base, resulting in significant rebel casualties. The operation not only showcased the effectiveness of special forces in asymmetric warfare but also helped to stabilize the Omani government, allowing it to recover and eventually defeat the insurgents in the following years. The courageous actions at Mirbat have since been celebrated within military circles and are often cited as a model of effective counterinsurgency tactics.The aftermath of the battle led to a deeper commitment from the British in supporting Oman, resulting in increased military and developmental aid. This solidified the Omani government’s control and paved the way for modernization efforts in the Sultanate, shaping Oman’s post-rebellion trajectory significantly.