Druzhba-VIII: Russia and Pakistan conduct cooperative counterterrorism exercises

From September 15–27, 2025, the Russian Army and the Pakistan Army will participate in the eighth iteration of their joint military exercise, “Druzhba-VIII,” which is focused on counterterrorism.

Senior Russian military officials also attended the ceremony, but the main visitor from Pakistan was the Vice Chief of General Staff, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Throughout the exercises, the soldiers from both countries demonstrated the highest standards of professional performance.

Strengthening knowledge in several facets of counterterrorism operations is the goal of the exercise. These include fighting in populated areas, using drones, and fending off threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and landmines. To improve tactical cooperation and operational preparation in a variety of scenarios, joint training sessions are being conducted.

Russian and Pakistani forces displayed accuracy, expertise, and environmental adaptation during the maneuvers. Their well-coordinated performance demonstrated strict training requirements and a mutual dedication to improving methods and processes crucial to contemporary counterterrorism operations.

Beyond tactical advantages, ISPR pointed out that Druzhba-VIII is strengthening Pakistan-Russian military ties, which have existed for a long time. Now in its ninth edition, the exercises continue to provide a forum for learning from one another, enhancing interoperability, and strengthening defense cooperation between the two nations.