Gulf Cooperation Council forces have begun a major joint military exercise in Saudi Arabia aimed at strengthening collective defence and improving regional military coordination.
The Saudi ministry of defence said the exercise, titled “Gulf Shield 2026,” brings together forces from all GCC member states, to enhance combat readiness and deepen joint operational integration. It said the drills are designed to improve coordination among participating forces and to raise the efficiency of joint planning and execution in a unified operational environment.
The exercise includes a wide range of procedures, tests and field scenarios intended to measure the readiness of forces and the effectiveness of their responses to potential threats. According to the ministry, these activities are aimed at strengthening compatibility among participating units and reinforcing as a flexible deterrence system. The drills also seek to unify military concepts, encourage the exchange of operational expertise and develop the field capabilities of the participating forces amid current and emerging challenges. The exercise forms part of a series of joint Gulf military activities that reflect the depth of defence cooperation among GCC countries.
