Pakistan and Qatar have launched a joint aerial exercise, dubbed Zilzaal II, in Qatar to strengthen their military ties and enhance their operational capabilities. The exercise, which started on Monday, will continue for two weeks and involve various air combat scenarios and maneuvers.
According to a spokesperson of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), this exercise is one of the most complex and challenging ones that the PAF has ever participated in. It will provide an opportunity for mutual cooperation and shared learning between the two air forces, as well as improve their strategic planning and modern military techniques.
The exercise will also feature the debut of the J-10C fighter jet, a state-of-the-art aircraft that Pakistan acquired from China last year. The J-10C is a multi-role fighter that can perform air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-sea missions. It is equipped with advanced avionics, weapons, and stealth features that make it a formidable adversary in the sky.
The J-10C will demonstrate its prowess and agility in the exercise, along with other aircraft from both sides, such as the F-16, Mirage, Rafale, and AWACS. The exercise will also include aerial refueling, electronic warfare, and joint air defense operations.
The PAF spokesperson said that the exercise is a testament to the strong and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar, as well as their commitment to regional security and stability. He added that the PAF is proud to be a part of this exercise and will continue to uphold its mission of defending the aerial borders of Pakistan, fostering international cooperation, and promoting peace.
Zilzaal II is the second edition of the joint air exercise between Pakistan and Qatar, following the first one that was held in 2020. The exercise is hosted by the Qatari Emiri Air Force (QEAF) and is part of a series of bilateral and multilateral exercises that the PAF regularly conducts with friendly countries.