PAF participates in two international air drills Shaheen-X, Bright Star

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) 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 C and JF-17 lead fighter aircraft, Combat Pilots, Air Defence Controllers, and technical ground crew, who were actively engaged in the Shaheen-X bilateral Air Exercise hosted by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force in China, as well as the Bright Star Air Exercise held in Egypt, a PAF news release said.

The successful induction and operationalisation of the J-10C fighter jets in PAF’s fighter fleet and their participation in an international exercise in an unprecedented short span of time was a remarkable achievement. The feat has been achieved in line with the modernisation plan of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu premised on smart inductions and focused indigenisation.

The participation of these fighter jets in Exercise Shaheen-X marks a significant milestone in PAF’s journey towards a technologically advanced and formidable air force. The rapid acquisition and operationalisation of these advanced aircraft showcase PAF’s dedication to maintaining a cutting-edge force, capable of meeting evolving challenges and defending Pakistan’s airspace with utmost proficiency.

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

As the Sino-Pak Joint Annual Air Exercise Shaheen-X is in full swing in the Jiuquan and Yinchuan cities of Northwest China, the exceptional event highlights the dedication and capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force, demonstrating its commitment to fostering mutual learning and collaboration with allied countries.

The Shaheen-X exercise in China and the Bright Star Air Exercise in Egypt provide invaluable opportunities for PAF to build upon its operational experience and exchange knowledge with esteemed counterparts from around the world. During his visit at the Shaheen-X exercise, Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Defence, Air Marshal Abdul Moeed Khan expressed his admiration for the enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by the PAF contingent participating in the air exercise.

He emphasized the significance of these exercises in achieving common objectives while addressing the evolving dynamics of air warfare in the face of shared security challenges. Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Defence, Air Marshal Abdul Moeed Khan commended the People’s Liberation Army Air Force on the successful execution of the exercise while further strengthening the existing partnership between the key allies and bolstering interoperability between the two Air Forces.

The simultaneous participation of the Pakistan Air Force in both Shaheen-X and Bright Star Air Exercises underscores the PAF’s commitment to excellence, professionalism and the continuous pursuit of enhancing its capabilities.

These exercises serve as a platform to foster greater understanding, cooperation, and friendship between Pakistan and its international partners, contributing to regional stability and security. Pakistan Air Force remains dedicated to its mission of safeguarding the skies, strengthening international alliances, and promoting peace through mutual cooperation.