RIYADH: Saudi defense forces have joined contingents from 10 other nations in the “Desert Flag” joint air exercise in the UAE, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

The Royal Saudi Air Force and Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces are among units taking part in the exercise, which will continue for several weeks at Al-Dhafra Air Base.

Other countries participating are Qatar, Bahrain, Turkiye, the US, France, South Korea, the UK, Australia, India, and Germany.

Commander of the air force contingent, Lt. Col. Pilot Faisal Al-Marwani, said preparations were carried out in line with approved safety standards for military exercises.

Al-Marwani added that the Saudi Air Force deployed six F-15C fighters with full crews to exchange military expertise in realistic combat scenarios, enhance readiness, and strengthen international partnerships.

He said that the exercise includes various air maneuvers, such as defensive and offensive counter-air operations, close air support, and combat search and rescue.

The objectives include exchanging expertise in planning and execution, improving combat readiness, and strengthening ties with participating forces.