The United Arab Emirates is set to conduct its first-ever aerial military drills with China, the Chinese Defense Ministry announced on Monday.
According to the ministry, the joint air force training exercises, named Falcon Shield-2023, will take place in China's Xinjiang region next month.
The initiative is part of an agreement between Beijing and Abu Dhabi aimed at bolstering collaboration and fostering greater mutual understanding and trust between the Chinese and UAE militaries, it stated.
"This is the first joint training between both air forces, aiming to deepen pragmatic exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries and enhance mutual understanding and trust," the ministry said.
Earlier this year, the two countries entered into a "historic deal," whereby China will export its L-15 advanced trainer jets to the oil-rich Persian Gulf monarchy, which was announced by the Chinese aviation industry on February 21.
The L-15 is a supersonic platform designed as a two-seat, twin-engine aircraft to meet the demand for pilot training. It offers enhanced pilot safety features while also reducing training expenses compared to other similar aircraft on the market.
The exercise is set to take place as the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs in June announced its withdrawal from the US-led Combined Maritime Forces.
"As a result of our ongoing evaluation of effective security cooperation with all partners, two months ago, the UAE withdrew its participation in the Combined Maritime Forces," the ministry stated.
In December 2021, the UAE halted a deal to purchase US F-35 fighter jets and drones, reportedly as a result of US efforts to restrict Chinese technology sales, notably Huawei 5G, to the Arab nation.