A Pakistan Air Force contingent, including F-16 Block-52 fighter aircraft along with dedicated air and ground crew, has arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base in Saudi Arabia to participate in the multinational aerial combat exercise Spears of Victory-2026, the Inter-Services Public Relations said on Monday.

According to ISPR, 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.

The statement said the exercise provides a comprehensive platform to enhance interoperability, operational synergy and mutual understanding among participating air forces. It focuses on large force employment, night composite air operations, integrated intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and operations in advanced electronic warfare environments.

ISPR said the Pakistan Air Force aims to strengthen coordination with partner air forces and validate its operational preparedness in a contested, technology-driven battlespace through participation in the exercise.

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

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

The military’s media wing said PAF’s participation reflects its commitment to regional and international military cooperation and highlights its professional excellence and ability to operate effectively in diverse and demanding operational environments with leading contemporary air forces.