Jan 19, 2026: The Pakistan Air Force has deployed a contingent of F-16 Block-52 fighter aircraft and support personnel to the King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Saudi Arabia to participate in the multinational aerial combat Exercise Spears of Victory-2026, officials confirmed.
The exercise includes fighter jets and combat support elements from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Kingdom and the United States. It is aimed at strengthening coordination, interoperability and operational synergy among participating air forces.
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Military officials said the drills focus on advanced combat scenarios such as large force employment, night composite air operations, integrated intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and operations in complex electronic warfare environments.
As part of the deployment, PAF fighter aircraft completed a non-stop flight from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the service’s long-range operational capability. During the exercise, PAF pilots flying F-16 Block-52 aircraft equipped with modern avionics and beyond-visual-range weapon systems will train alongside aircrews operating a variety of advanced combat platforms.
Officials added that Pakistan Air Force’s participation reflects its commitment to international military cooperation and its readiness to operate effectively in high-intensity, technology-driven operational environments.
