The eighth annual joint
exercise of Pakistani and Chinese air forces ‘Shaheen-VIII’ has started in northwest China. According
to Chinese media reports, the joint training aims at improving training standards of the two air forces through mutua
l learning. It will also help enhance close relations between the two countries in general and develop a mechanism for interoperability of both the air forces in particular. The joint training does not target any third party and aims to improve training standards of the two air forces through mutua
l learning. Last year, the joint training between the air forces of all-weather friends was held in Pakistan which was attended by a contingent of the Chinese air force, comprising combat pilots, air defense controllers, and technical ground
crew along with fighter jets, bombers and early warning AWACS planes. The joint
exercise is conducted each year in both countries on an alternate basis. The Chinese air force contingent partic
ipated in ‘Shaheen-VII’, which was held in Pakistan last year.