UAE, traditionally a U.S. ally, and China’s air forces plan historic first joint exercise in August

The Air Forces of China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced plans for a joint training exercise in Xinjiang, Northwest China, this coming August.

China’s Ministry of Defense confirmed the news, marking this as the first-ever joint exercise between the two nations’ air forces.

Named Falcon Shield-2023, the exercise aims to “deepen practical-level exchanges,” strengthen military cooperation, and boost mutual trust, as per the statement, which did not disclose the exact dates for the maneuvers.

Traditionally, the UAE is a US ally and maintains close relations with China, a major destination for its oil exports.

Meanwhile, Beijing seeks to solidify its position as the biggest trade partner and a key political ally to the Arab world.

This follows last year’s “historic” summits in Riyadh, involving Chinese President Xi Jinping and Gulf, Middle East, and North Africa leaders.

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