Pakistan Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have launched their annual joint military exercise, Warrior-IX, focusing on counter-terrorism operations.

The drills began on December 1 at the National Counter-Terrorism Center (NCTC) in Pabbi.

Warrior-IX marks the ninth edition of the annual Pakistan-China counter-terrorism exercises. Conducted every year, these drills aim to improve professional skills, enhance inter-service coordination, and exchange best practices related to modern warfare.

The exercise is widely regarded as a practical demonstration of the strong military relations and enduring defense cooperation between Pakistan and China. It reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability.

The Pakistan Army and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China have commenced the joint military exercise Warrior-IX, the ninth edition in the series of bilateral counterterrorism exercises conducted annually between the two Iron Clad Brothers.

The exercise began on 1… pic.twitter.com/NXsHQ1u134
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) December 2, 2025

The primary objective of Warrior-IX is to conduct counter-terrorism operations, with a focus on refining tactical capabilities and interoperability between forces. The exercises simulate real-world scenarios, allowing troops to practice coordinated responses to various security threats.

Participation and opening ceremony

The opening ceremony was held at NCTC Pabbi, attended by high-ranking military officials, including the Commander of Mangla Corps and the Deputy Chief of Staff of the PLA Western Theatre Command. Other senior officers from both countries were also present, emphasizing the significance of the event.

Pakistan and China share a long-standing, time-tested defense partnership rooted in mutual trust. Warrior-IX reinforces this strategic relationship and highlights the countries’ commitment to exchanging knowledge and experience in modern warfare techniques.

The exercise also serves as a platform to strengthen professional expertise and operational readiness, ensuring both militaries remain capable of addressing evolving security challenges.