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Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent has arrived in Saudi Arabia to participate in the multinational aerial combat exercise “Spears of Victory-2026,” highlighting Pakistan’s growing role in regional defense cooperation.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the contingent includes F-16 Block-52 fighter jets along with air and ground support personnel. The team landed at King Abdul-Aziz Air Base to join forces with air units from Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Advanced Combat
Military officials say the exercise is designed to enhance interoperability, operational coordination, and mutual understanding among participating nations. Pilots and crews will focus on advanced air combat tactics, large force deployments, night operations, integrated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and operations in complex electronic warfare environments.
For Pakistan, the exercise offers a platform to strengthen cooperation with allied air forces and validate its combat readiness. Notably, PAF fighter jets completed a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the force’s long-range operational capability and expeditionary strength.
F-16s in Action
During the drills, Pakistani pilots will operate modern F-16s equipped with advanced avionics and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) weapon systems. They will fly joint missions alongside a variety of international combat aircraft, engaging in simulated air battles and tactical exercises.
PAF officials described the participation as an opportunity to refine skills, share expertise, and reinforce defense ties with friendly countries, while also showcasing Pakistan’s evolving air power.
According to a PAF spokesperson exercises like Spears of Victory-2026 allow our pilots to operate in diverse combat scenarios, which is crucial for maintaining readiness and strengthening regional partnerships. The multinational drill is expected to last several weeks and serve as a benchmark for international cooperation in modern aerial warfare.
