Article Posted on : - Mar 19, 2011

A file photo.

ISLAMABAD (PTI): The Pakistan Air Force Saturday announced it was conducting a joint exercise codenamed Shaheen-1 with the Chinese air force.

The exercise is aimed at sharing mutual experiences, honing professional skills and accruing maximum benefits from the expertise of the two air forces, said a statement issued by the PAF.

A contingent of the Chinese air force comprising combat jets, pilots and technicians had arrived at an operational base of the PAF for the exercise.

This is the first time that a contingent of the Chinese air force has deployed in Pakistan for an operational exercise.

The exercise coincides with the celebration of 2011 as the "Year of Pakistan-China Friendship".