The 13th Pakistan-United States bilateral joint exercise, Inspired Gambit-2026, commenced on January 9 at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi, Nowshera District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

This two-week exercise is being conducted in the counter-terrorism domain and involves professional contingents from both the Pakistani and US armies.

Officials from both countries attended the opening ceremony, according to the ISPR.

The exercise aims to strengthen mutual understanding and interoperability by sharing counter-terrorism experiences and refining tactics, techniques, and procedures critical for effective operations.

Special focus is being given to marksmanship in urban warfare, along with familiarisation with each other’s operational doctrines and best practices.

Joint exercises like Inspired Gambit-2026 play a key role in addressing evolving security threats, enhancing professional military standards, and improving the ability of both forces to operate in complex counter-terrorism environments.

The exercise also demonstrates the ongoing commitment of Pakistan and the United States to collaborative efforts for regional peace and stability.