The Pakistan Army and South African Armed Forces successfully concluded a two-week joint counter-terrorism exercise, Iqbal-I, in the northwestern region of Cherat. The exercise, which took place from October 15 to October 27, aimed to enhance counter-terrorism capabilities and strengthen military ties between the two nations, according to Pakistan’s military media wing, ISPR.
Involving Pakistan’s Special Services Group (SSG) and South Africa’s Special Forces, the exercise focused on refining drills, procedures, and techniques used in counter-terror operations. Through joint training, both teams exchanged valuable expertise and strengthened their historic military partnership.
The closing ceremony was attended by key military figures, including the Commandant of Pakistan’s Special Operation School and Colonel SS Lechoenyo, Chief of Staff of South Africa’s Special Forces.
“The troops displayed exceptional standards of professional excellence throughout the exercise,” stated ISPR, acknowledging the commitment shown by both armies.
Pakistan routinely holds joint exercises with allied countries to improve interoperability and deploy joint strategies to counter global security threats. This collaborative approach also attracts cadets from partner nations to undergo specialized training in Pakistan, which has long experience in combating militancy.
