ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Army has commenced separate joint military exercises with Russian and Omani forces at Cherat and the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi, respectively, the military’s media wing said on Tuesday.
The ninth edition of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Exercise Druzhba-IX and the second edition of the Pakistan-Oman Joint Exercise Washaq Al Jabal-II (Mountain Lynx-II) commenced today, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
“The two-week exercises bring together contingents from Pakistan Army and their counterparts from the Russian Army and the Royal Army of Oman to share operational experience, refine counter-terrorism drills, procedures and enhance interoperability,” it said.
Exchange of best practices
The military’s media wing further stated that through joint training and the exchange of best practices, the participating forces would hone their combat skills and tactical expertise while further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
Pakistan Army has begun joint military exercises with Russian and Omani forces at Cherat and NCTC Pabbi, respectively, ISPR says. Druzhba IX with Russia and Washaq Al Jabal II with Oman will run for two weeks, focusing on counterterrorism drills, sharing operational experience… pic.twitter.com/sSLqklgZ62
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) September 22, 2026
The Pakistan Army routinely conducts joint military exercises with foreign militaries to improve operational readiness and enhance combat capabilities.
Pakistan and Russia have expanded defence cooperation through high-level military contacts, joint exercises and military-technical engagement. The two sides also maintain consultations on regional security, strategic stability, arms control and other international security issues.
In September 2025, “Druzhba-VIII” between the Pakistan and Russian armies was conducted from September 15–27 in the counter-terrorism domain.
“The exercise was aimed at refining the drills, procedures and techniques involved in counterterrorism operations with a focus on drone warfare, fighting in built-up areas and counter-improvised explosive devices,” ISPR had said in a statement.
Pakistan and Oman maintain close defence ties through military training, exchanges, joint exercises and institutional contacts between their armed forces. The two countries regularly conduct bilateral military and naval exercises aimed at strengthening interoperability and sharing professional expertise.
