Pakistan and Egypt launch fortnight-long Thunder-II exercise to boost tactical skills and regional security cooperation.
Cherat: (Anwarzeb Khan) Pakistan and Egypt have officially launched the ‘Thunder-II’ bilateral military exercise, a two-week initiative aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism capabilities and deepening strategic defence ties.
The exercise began on 6 April 2026 at the Special Operations School in Cherat, Pakistan. The opening ceremony was attended by elite contingents from the Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) and the Egyptian Special Forces, according to Radio Pakistan.
The Commandant of the Special Operations School, serving as chief guest, formally inaugurated the drills, highlighting a key milestone in the longstanding military cooperation between Islamabad and Cairo.
Enhancing Tactical Expertise and Interoperability
Thunder-II focuses on refining professional skills through joint training modules simulating complex real-world scenarios. The collaboration allows both nations’ special forces to synchronize operational procedures, strengthen tactical interoperability, and adopt advanced counter-terrorism strategies to address evolving security threats.
Strengthening Bilateral Defence Relations
Beyond tactical improvements, the exercise serves as a platform for sharing expertise and operational experiences, reinforcing the strong diplomatic and military ties between Pakistan and Egypt. The intensive drills in Cherat are expected to further solidify professional bonds and fraternal relations between the two friendly armed forces.
Thunder-II underscores the mutual commitment of both countries to regional stability while enhancing the operational readiness of their elite troops.
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