Gulf Shield drill boosts GCC air defense readiness

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The exercise concluded with a joint aerial display showcasing high levels of coordination and operational integration. (X: @modgovksa)
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The exercise concluded with a joint aerial display showcasing high levels of coordination and operational integration. (X: @modgovksa)
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The exercise concluded with a joint aerial display showcasing high levels of coordination and operational integration. (X: @modgovksa)
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The exercise concluded with a joint aerial display showcasing high levels of coordination and operational integration. (X: @modgovksa)
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Updated 10 January 2026
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Gulf Shield drill boosts GCC air defense readiness

Riyadh: The joint military exercise Gulf Shield concluded in Saudi Arabia on Friday, with the participation of the Gulf Cooperation Council air forces and air defense units alongside the GCC Unified Military Command.

The drill aimed to strengthen regional defense cooperation and raise combat readiness, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It featured advanced operational scenarios, including simulations of multidimensional air and missile threats, joint air maneuvers, and integrated field exercises, focusing on operational integration, command-and-control systems, and efficiency in a joint environment.

The exercise sought to enhance military capabilities, improve readiness to counter current and future threats, and reinforce collective defense and flexible deterrence to support regional security and stability.

Gulf Shield is considered a key pillar of military cooperation among GCC states, reflecting efforts to deepen defense integration and strengthen response capabilities, the SPA reported.

The exercise concluded with a joint aerial display showcasing high levels of coordination, operational integration, and adherence to unified operational concepts and advanced professional standards.


Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Cyprus president

Former Cypriot President George Vassiliou speaks at a press conference about improving trade relations between Cyprus and Egypt.
Updated 15 January 2026
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Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Cyprus president

  • Former Cyprus President George Vassiliou died on Wednesday aged 94
  • He led the country between 1988 and 1993

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent separate cables of condolences to the President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulide after the passing of one of his predecessors.
Former Cyprus President George Vassiliou died on Wednesday aged 94. He led the country between 1988 and 1993.
The king and crown prince also extended their condolences to the family of the deceased and the people of Cyprus, Saudi Press Agency reported.