Beijing (TDI): China’s Ministry of National Defense has said that the “Falcon Shield” joint air force training has become a hallmark of military cooperation between China and the United Arab Emirates, significantly contributing to practical collaboration and regional stability.
Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the ministry, told a press briefing that the Falcon Shield 2025 exercise was held in the UAE from December 9 to 22.
He noted that the drills marked a first for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force, which deployed J-10 fighter jets, KJ-500 airborne early warning aircraft, and YY-20A aerial refuelling tankers to the UAE.
According to Zhang, air force units from both countries operated in integrated formations during the exercise, focusing on areas such as command simulations and air superiority missions.
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The drills also featured extensive exchanges on night combat operations using night-vision equipment, unmanned combat systems, and battlefield search and rescue procedures.
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He said the Falcon Shield exercise has now been conducted three times and continues to play a key role in strengthening operational cooperation between the two air forces, while also supporting peace and stability in the region.
