ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is currently engaged in two extensive aerial drills at separate international locations, a significant achievement reflecting its dedication to enhancing its air capabilities and fostering international cooperation.
This participation includes PAF’s foremost fighter aircraft, the J-10 C and JF-17, along with combat pilots, air defense controllers, and skilled technical ground crew members. They are currently fully involved in two major exercises: the Shaheen-X bilateral Air Exercise hosted by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force in China and the Bright Star Air Exercise held in Egypt.
The rapid induction and operationalization of the J-10C fighter jets into the PAF’s fighter fleet and their swift participation in an international exercise is a remarkable accomplishment. This achievement aligns with the modernization plan set forth by Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, which emphasizes intelligent acquisitions and focused indigenization.
Pakistan Air Force is carrying out two large scale flying exercises from two different locations across the globe, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to enhancing its aerial prowess and strengthening international cooperation. The participation includes PAF's J-10… pic.twitter.com/CUeLWJ4vRn
— DGPR (AIR FORCE) (@DGPR_PAF) September 15, 2023
The involvement of these advanced aircrafts in Exercise Shaheen-X represents a significant milestone in the PAF’s journey towards becoming a technologically advanced and formidable air force. The swift integration and operational readiness of these advanced platforms showcase the PAF’s commitment to maintaining a cutting-edge force capable of meeting evolving challenges and defending Pakistan’s airspace with utmost proficiency.
As the Sino-Pak Joint Annual Air Exercise Shaheen-X unfolds in the cities of Jiuquan and Yinchuan in Northwest China, it underscores the PAF’s dedication and capabilities, demonstrating its commitment to mutual learning and collaboration with allied nations. The Shaheen-X exercise in China and the Bright Star Air Exercise in Egypt offer invaluable opportunities for PAF to enhance its operational experience and share knowledge with esteemed counterparts worldwide.
During his visit to the Shaheen-X exercise, Air Marshal Abdul Moeed Khan, Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Defense, Pakistan Air Force, commended the dedication and commitment of the PAF contingent participating in the air exercise. He emphasized the significance of these exercises in achieving common objectives, addressing the evolving dynamics of air warfare, and tackling shared security challenges. Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Defense also praised the People’s Liberation Army Air Force for the successful execution of the exercise, further strengthening the partnership between the two key allies and enhancing interoperability between their Air Forces.
