Rawalpindi – Pakistan and China have kicked off Warrior-IX, the latest edition of their annual counterterrorism military exercise, marking another step in what both sides describe as an “Iron Clad” strategic partnership.

The joint drill, which began on December 1 at the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) in Pabbi, focuses on modern counterterrorism operations, interoperability, and the exchange of professional expertise. The exercise is the ninth in the Warrior series, a long-running bilateral engagement aimed at strengthening coordination between the Pakistan Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Senior military leadership from both countries attended the opening ceremony, including Mangla Corps Commander and Major General Bian Xiaoming, Deputy Chief of Staff of the PLA’s Western Theatre Command.

According to military media wing, the joint exercise reflects the deepening defence cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing, built on decades of strategic trust. Both sides say the training underscores their shared commitment to regional stability and security amid emerging security challenges.

Warrior-IX will continue over the coming days, with troops from both nations participating in a range of counterterrorism scenarios designed to enhance readiness and tactical cohesion.