By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A contingent from the Pakistan Air Force arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday to participate in a large-scale multinational aerial combat exercise, military officials said, in a move that points to efforts to strengthen cooperation among allied forces as threats in the region shift and grow.
The Pakistani group, which includes F-16 Block-52 fighter jets along with air and ground crews, touched down at King Abdulaziz Air Base to join “Spears of Victory 2026,” according to a statement from Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations office. The exercise brings together aircraft and support elements from a range of nations, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Britain and the United States.
It is designed to foster greater coordination in complex operations, such as large-scale force deployments, nighttime composite air missions, integrated intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities, and maneuvers in advanced electronic warfare settings, the statement said. Pakistan’s involvement shows its drive to build stronger links with international partners and prove its readiness in high-tech, contested environments, the military added.
In a striking show of stamina, the Pakistani jets flew nonstop from their base in Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the air force’s extended operational range and ability to deploy rapidly overseas. During the drills, Pakistani pilots will fly the advanced F-16s, outfitted with cutting-edge avionics and beyond-visual-range weapons, against crews from other participating countries operating various sophisticated fighters. The participation reflects Pakistan’s dedication to regional and global military collaboration, as well as its track record of performing effectively in challenging scenarios alongside top-tier air forces, the statement said.
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