The contingent, comprising F-16 Block-52 fighter aircraft along with dedicated air and ground crew, landed at King Abdulaziz Air Base for the exercise.

According to ISPR, the drills involve fighter jets and combat support elements from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The exercise is designed to enhance interoperability, operational synergy and mutual understanding among participating air forces, with a focus on large force employment, night composite air operations, integrated intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and missions in advanced electronic warfare environments.

ISPR said the deployment also aims to validate the PAF’s operational preparedness in a contested, technology-driven battlespace.

As part of the deployment, PAF fighter aircraft conducted a non-stop flight from their home base in Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, underscoring the air force’s long-range reach and expeditionary capability.

During the exercise, PAF pilots flying F-16 Block-52 aircraft equipped with modern avionics and beyond-visual-range capabilities will operate alongside and against aircrew from participating nations flying a range of advanced combat aircraft.

The participation, ISPR added, reflects the PAF’s commitment to regional and international military cooperation and highlights its ability to operate effectively in complex and demanding operational environments.