PAF jets land in Saudi Arabia for 'Spears of Victory' war exercise

RAWALPINDI:

A Pakistan Air Force contingent, comprising F-16 Block-52 fighter aircraft, alongside dedicated air and ground crew, arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia to participate in the multinational aerial combat exercise 'Spears of Victory-2026'.

The exercise is witnessing the participation of fighter jets and combat support elements from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Kingdom and the United States, said a news release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) here.

"It said that the exercise offers a robust platform to enhance interoperability, operational synergy, mutual understanding and capacity building among the participating air forces, particularly in large force employment, night composite air operations, integrated ISR, and operations in advanced electronic warfare environments.

"Through participation in this multinational forum, Pakistan Air Force seeks to enhance interoperability with partner air forces, and validate its operational preparedness in a contested, technology-driven battle space," the news release stated.

"For this international deployment, PAF fighter aircraft undertook a non-stop flight from their home base in Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the long-range operational reach and expeditionary capabilities of Pakistan Air Force."

During the exercise, PAF pilots flying advanced F-16 Block-52 aircraft equipped with modern avionics and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) capabilities will be pitched against aircrew of participating air forces operating a wide array of sophisticated combat aircraft.

Participation of Pakistan Air Force contingent in 'Spears of Victory-2026' not only reflects PAF's firm commitment to regional and international military cooperation, but also underscores its professional excellence.