Rawalpindi, January 19, 2026: A Pakistan Air Force (PAF) contingent comprising F-16 Block-52 fighter aircraft, along with dedicated air and ground crew, has arrived at King Abdulaziz Air Base in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to participate in the multinational aerial combat exercise Spears of Victory-2026, according to a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The exercise features participation from fighter jets and combat support elements of Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Italy, Greece, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Kingdom and the United States. It aims to provide a robust platform for enhancing interoperability, operational synergy, mutual understanding and capacity building among participating air forces.
ISPR said the exercise focuses on advanced air combat domains, including large force employment, night composite air operations, integrated intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and operations in complex electronic warfare environments.
Through participation in this multinational forum, the Pakistan Air Force seeks to strengthen interoperability with partner air forces and validate its operational preparedness in a contested, technology-driven battlespace. For this international deployment, PAF fighter aircraft undertook a non-stop flight from their home base in Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, demonstrating the long-range operational reach and expeditionary capabilities of the force.
During the exercise, PAF pilots flying advanced F-16 Block-52 aircraft equipped with modern avionics and beyond visual range (BVR) capabilities will operate alongside and against aircrews from participating nations flying a wide range of sophisticated combat aircraft.
ISPR stated that PAF’s participation in Exercise Spears of Victory-2026 reflects its strong commitment to regional and international military cooperation, while underscoring the Air Force’s professional excellence and proven ability to operate effectively in diverse and demanding operational environments alongside leading contemporary air forces.
