DAMMAM: The Royal Saudi Naval Force has concluded a joint military exercise with China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday.
The “Blue Sword-4” naval exercise included several scenarios and field drills, comprising combat in built-up areas, patrol, raid, and ambush operations, counter-terrorism measures, and a scenario for the recovery of crews and hostages.
The exercise also included underwater mine detection and disposal operations, rope descent drills using “Super Puma” helicopters, as well as live-fire training with light weapons, sniper shooting, and tactical firing exercises.
The joint drills aim to enhance military cooperation between the two sides, promote the exchange of expertise to improve combat readiness, and develop capabilities in maritime counterterrorism, anti-piracy operations, naval mine clearance, and countering tactical unmanned aerial systems.
The naval drill programme began in November 2019 at the King Faisal Naval Base in Jeddah.
Last month, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef visited China, where he met with senior government officials in Beijing and held discussions with leaders of major Chinese industrial firms in Shanghai.
The talks focused on strengthening industrial cooperation and exploring investment opportunities within Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector.
