In August, joint air exercises will be held in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Source: Xinhua
The Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAEAF) are set to conduct joint air exercises in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, as reported by Sarbaz.kz citing Xinhua.
The Falcon Shield-2023 exercises will mark the first-ever joint air drills between the air forces of the two nations. According to a statement from China's Ministry of National Defense, the primary objective of these exercises is to enhance "experience sharing and cooperation" between the two countries, while fostering mutual understanding and trust.
Xinjiang has previously served as a venue for conducting joint military exercises. In 2016, the region hosted combined military drills involving the Chinese army and other member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
In 2017, the PLAAF and the Pakistan Air Force jointly conducted the "Shaheen VI" military exercises in Xinjiang.
It is worth noting that the UAEAF predominantly employs Western fighter jets such as F-16 and Mirage-2000. If the UAE, a traditional ally of the United States, decides to deploy these aircraft, the Chinese air force will gain valuable experience by participating in joint air exercises alongside Western platforms.