Pakistan Army Begins Joint Military Exercises With Russian and Omani Forces
The Pakistan Army has launched joint military exercises with Russian and Omani forces as part of efforts to strengthen counter-terrorism capabilities, improve operational coordination and enhance defence cooperation with both countries.
The exercises, which began on September 22, 2026, are being conducted at Cherat and the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the ninth edition of the Pakistan-Russia Joint Exercise Druzhba-IX and the second edition of the Pakistan-Oman Joint Exercise Washaq Al Jabal-II, also known as Mountain Lynx-II, have commenced.
The two-week military exercises bring together contingents from the Pakistan Army, Russian Army and Royal Army of Oman. The participating forces will conduct joint training and exchange operational experience during the exercises.
Pakistan-Russia Joint Exercise Druzhba-IX Begins
The Pakistan-Russia exercise, Druzhba-IX, is being held at Cherat and marks the ninth edition of the bilateral military exercise.
According to ISPR, the exercise is focused on counter-terrorism operations and aims to provide the participating troops with an opportunity to share operational experience, refine procedures and improve their tactical capabilities.
Focus on Counter-Terrorism Training
Counter-terrorism remains a major focus of the exercise. Pakistani and Russian troops will participate in joint training activities designed to improve their ability to operate together in different operational environments.
The exercise will also allow both sides to exchange best practices and develop greater understanding of each other’s operational procedures.
ISPR said the joint training is expected to help participating forces improve combat skills and tactical expertise while strengthening military-to-military cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
The latest exercise also continues a series of military engagements between the two countries. The previous edition, Druzhba-VIII, was conducted in September 2025 and focused on counter-terrorism capabilities, including drone warfare, combat in built-up areas and counter-improvised explosive device operations.
Pakistan-Oman Exercise Washaq Al Jabal-II
Alongside the Russian exercise, Pakistan has also begun a joint military exercise with Oman.
The second edition of the Pakistan-Oman Joint Exercise Washaq Al Jabal-II, or Mountain Lynx-II, is being conducted at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi.
The exercise brings together personnel from the Pakistan Army and the Royal Army of Oman for joint training and operational exchanges.
Strengthening Defence Cooperation With Oman
The exercise provides an opportunity for the Pakistani and Omani forces to improve coordination and exchange military experience.
According to ISPR, joint exercises such as Mountain Lynx-II are intended to refine drills, procedures and counter-terrorism techniques while improving interoperability between participating forces.
Pakistan and Oman have maintained defence and military-to-military relations through training programmes and joint exercises. Oman has also previously hosted Pakistani military personnel during bilateral exercises, reflecting continued defence engagement between the two countries.
Why Joint Military Exercises Matter
Joint military exercises allow armed forces from different countries to train together under controlled conditions. They can help participating personnel understand different operational procedures, communication methods and tactical approaches.
For Pakistan, exercises involving Russia and Oman also provide opportunities to strengthen defence relationships beyond routine bilateral contacts.
Improving Interoperability
One of the key objectives highlighted by ISPR is interoperability, which refers to the ability of different military forces to coordinate and operate effectively with one another.
Through joint drills and training, troops can practise communication, coordination and tactical procedures before facing complex operational scenarios.
The exercises also provide an environment where participating forces can share lessons and best practices based on their respective operational experiences.
Pakistan’s Growing Counter-Terrorism Training
The latest exercises come as Pakistan continues to conduct counter-terrorism operations and training programmes with international partners.
Earlier in 2026, Pakistan also participated in joint counter-terrorism exercises with countries including Sri Lanka and Egypt. The Pakistan-Sri Lanka exercise involved Special Services Group personnel and focused on refining counter-terrorism drills and techniques.
The Pakistan-Russia and Pakistan-Oman exercises therefore add to a wider pattern of military cooperation involving counter-terrorism training and operational preparedness.
Two Weeks of Joint Training
The Druzhba-IX and Washaq Al Jabal-II exercises are scheduled to continue for two weeks.
During this period, Pakistani, Russian and Omani personnel will take part in training activities designed to improve tactical skills, operational coordination and counter-terrorism procedures.
According to ISPR, the exercises are also intended to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and military-to-military relations between Pakistan and its participating partners.
Latest Update
The Pakistan Army has officially commenced the Druzhba-IX exercise with Russia and Washaq Al Jabal-II (Mountain Lynx-II) with Oman on September 22, 2026. Both exercises will run for two weeks, with counter-terrorism training, operational experience sharing, tactical skills and interoperability among their main objectives.
The exercises are expected to provide participating forces with an opportunity to train together, exchange best practices and further develop their respective defence relationships.