Pak, China conclude joint air training exercise

Pakistan and China have concluded a joint air training exercise aimed at maximising the combat readiness of their air forces, Pakistan Air Force said on Friday.

The 'Shaheen-VII' air exercise began on December 3 and culminated on Friday with a ceremony at an operational air base of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Karachi.

"The main objective of the exercise was to maximise the combat readiness of the air forces by providing a realistic training environment in different air combat scenarios," the PAF said.

Earlier, distinguished visitors day was also celebrated to mark the culmination of the joint exercise. The PAF war veterans, diplomats from Chinese embassy, retired and senior serving officers also attended the ceremony, it said.

The PAF said it has been participating in foreign exercises with friendly air forces of the world. These exercises have helped in giving invaluable experience to the PAF combat crew and enhancing their professional competence, it said.

The Shaheen series of exercises between the two countries began in March 2011 and so far six such events have been organised.