Pakistan and China have launched Karakoram 2026 in Xinjiang, focusing on high-altitude counterterrorism, drone operations, marksmanship and joint military coordination.
Pakistan and China have launched joint military exercises in China’s Xinjiang region to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation, improve operational coordination and enhance their ability to respond to security threats.
The exercise, titled Karakoram 2026, began Wednesday with an opening ceremony at a military training base in Korla. Troops from both countries are participating in the drills, which aim to promote the exchange of operational experience and improve coordination between the two armed forces.
During the opening phase, Pakistani and Chinese personnel exchanged counterterrorism expertise, while Pakistani troops observed Chinese weapons and military equipment, according to the provided information.
China’s Defense Ministry said the exercise would deepen military exchanges and strengthen the two countries’ ability to jointly address terrorist threats. The training focuses on counterterrorism operations in high-altitude environments, where difficult terrain and extreme conditions can complicate military activities.
The planned activities include drone operations, searches for moving targets, firing exercises and long-range sniping. The drills will also cover joint command procedures and field exercises designed to improve coordination between participating troops during complex operations.
Karakoram 2026 is the latest activity in the longstanding defence partnership between Pakistan and China. The two countries have regularly conducted joint military training to strengthen interoperability and develop their capacity to cooperate on security challenges.
In September, the two sides conducted a joint patrol near Mantika Pass in the Khunjerab region of Gilgit-Baltistan. The patrol took place at an altitude of approximately 4,700 metres, highlighting the operational challenges associated with mountainous border environments.
Pakistan and China also reaffirmed their commitment to closer military cooperation and strategic coordination in May.
The latest exercises provide personnel from both countries with an opportunity to exchange operational knowledge, practise coordinated responses to security threats and improve their ability to operate together in challenging environments.
The training also underscores the importance both countries place on military engagement and counterterrorism cooperation. Through joint drills, their armed forces can practise command procedures, develop coordination and gain experience in responding to complex operational scenarios.
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