The annual Sino-Pak joint air exercise, Shaheen-X, has officially commenced in the cities of Jiuquan and Yinchuan in Northwest China.
As outlined in a statement released by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), the exercise features Pakistan's leading fighter aircraft, the J-10 C and JF-17, in addition to both air and ground crew personnel.
Since 2011, the People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Pakistan Air Force have been jointly conducting the Shaheen exercises, with each country taking turns hosting the event. These exercises serve the purpose of enhancing aerial combat practices, bolstering operational readiness, fostering interoperability, and cultivating synergy among the longstanding strategic allies in the region.
Furthermore, this edition of the Shaheen exercise incorporates elements of hybrid warfare, cyberspace, and computing, thereby enhancing the Pakistan Air Force's effectiveness in the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare.
The exercise is poised to leverage the strong fraternal ties between these two nations, enabling them to develop a comprehensive defense strategy to safeguard their aerial boundaries in the face of shared challenges.
The tenth iteration of this joint aerial exercise marks a significant endeavor to fortify the bonds of camaraderie and unity between the Air Forces of Pakistan and China. It is expected that the exercise will elevate the level of practical combat training for the participating skilled pilots and dedicated personnel.
Through these collaborative efforts, the PAF underscores its steadfast commitment to promoting regional harmony, international security, and continual advancements in its own capabilities.