Saudi Gazette report

KONYA —The Saudi Air Force announced its participation in the "Anatolian Phoenix 2025" combat search and rescue exercise at Konya Air Base in Turkey, alongside forces from sister and friendly countries. The exercise, in which Saudi fighter jets are participating, aims to enhance their combat efficiency.

Saudi fighter jets are also continuing their participation in the Desert Flag 2025 joint exercise in Abu Dhabi, with six F-15C fighter jets and their full air, technical, and support crews. This is to exchange military expertise in planning and execution in an environment similar to real warfare, and to enhance the readiness and combat efficiency of the air and technical support crews.

Joint Ministry of Defense exercises enhance threat deterrence and defeat aggression, while also achieving coordination and enhancing defense and security cooperation, both domestically and internationally, to protect Saudi Arabia's security from external threats. They also promote integrated coordination with national forces to develop capabilities and mutual benefits to enhance national security.

Deputy Commander of the Air Forces, Major General Pilot Talal Al-Ghamdi, inspected the preparations of the group participating in the exercise from King Khalid Air Base in the southern sector.

The Air Force is participating in the exercise with two Cougar helicopters, complete with their full air, technical, and support crews, in addition to six air controllers. This will enhance operational readiness, exchange expertise, and train in an environment that simulates real-world operations.