Accra:A joint tactical flight exercise titled ‘Falcons Meet – 2026′ recently held its Distinguished Visitors’ Day, attended by leadership from the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense and high-ranking officials. The exercise, which began on October 12, included various offensive and defensive air operations as well as search-and-rescue missions under combat conditions.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event started with a tribute to Martyrs who gave their lives for their country, followed by the national anthems of Azerbaijan and the UAE. Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense, was briefed on the exercise’s objectives, phases, and the various military forces and assets involved.
The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation and build mutual trust between Azerbaijan and the UAE. It also focuses on improving the interoperability and joint operational capabilities of the two nations’ air forces, planning and coordinating air operations, and exchanging experiences among participants.
Over 600 service members from both countries participated. The Azerbaijan Army contributed three air defense systems, two electronic warfare systems, and 20 aviation assets, while the UAE Armed Forces deployed six combat aircraft, one transport aircraft, and three helicopters.
Distinguished Visitors’ Day included a demonstration of the exercise in progress and a flypast featuring aviation assets from both nations, each carrying their national flags. The professionalism of the participants was highly praised by the attendees. The event concluded with a display of the aviation assets involved in the exercise.