Latest news with #RoyalSaudiAirDefenseForces
Arab News
23-04-2025
- General
- Arab News
Saudi forces join ‘Desert Flag' air drill in UAE
RIYADH: Saudi defense forces have joined contingents from 10 other nations in the 'Desert Flag' joint air exercise in the UAE, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. The Royal Saudi Air Force and Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces are among units taking part in the exercise, which will continue for several weeks at Al-Dhafra Air Base. Other countries participating are Qatar, Bahrain, Turkiye, the US, France, South Korea, the UK, Australia, India, and Germany. Commander of the air force contingent, Lt. Col. Pilot Faisal Al-Marwani, said preparations were carried out in line with approved safety standards for military exercises. Al-Marwani added that the Saudi Air Force deployed six F-15C fighters with full crews to exchange military expertise in realistic combat scenarios, enhance readiness, and strengthen international partnerships. He said that the exercise includes various air maneuvers, such as defensive and offensive counter-air operations, close air support, and combat search and rescue. The objectives include exchanging expertise in planning and execution, improving combat readiness, and strengthening ties with participating forces.
Asharq Al-Awsat
09-04-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Military Personnel Graduate from US THAAD Missile Defense Training Program
The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces have announced the graduation of the second unit trained to operate the US-made Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defense system. The training was completed at Fort Bliss Military Base in El Paso, Texas. This latest graduation follows the completion of training for the first unit several months ago and is part of a broader initiative to build a fully qualified Saudi operational and maintenance crew for the THAAD system- one of the world's most advanced and precise missile defense technologies. The system is considered a key pillar of Saudi Arabia's air defense capabilities. During their training, the Saudi personnel underwent an intensive program that included technical and operational instruction, combat simulation, and advanced field exercises. The course was conducted under the supervision of experts from the system's manufacturing company, in cooperation with the United States as part of ongoing military collaboration agreements between the two nations. This training initiative is aligned with the Saudi Ministry of Defense's strategic objective to enhance the operational readiness and technical proficiency of its forces through advanced and specialized training. The goal is to equip Saudi forces with the skills required for modern military operations, in line with Vision 2030's focus on military modernization and technological localization. The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces continue to implement comprehensive plans to qualify national cadres capable of managing and operating advanced defense systems, strengthening national security and protecting Saudi airspace against potential threats. The graduation ceremony was held at Fort Bliss in the presence of Major General Abdullah Al-Rubaie, Commander of the Air Defense Forces Institute, representing Lieutenant General Mazyad Al-Amro, Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces. The event was also attended by US counterparts and representatives from relevant training bodies.
Leaders
09-04-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Fortifies Skies: Second THAAD Operator Batch Graduates in US
The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces (RSADF) celebrated a significant milestone with the graduation of its second batch of THAAD-trained personnel. The ceremony took place in April 2025 at Fort Bliss, Texas, echoing the success of the first batch in November 2024. This achievement marks a critical step in enhancing Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities against regional threats. Advanced Training Program The 20-week training program equips personnel with skills to operate and maintain the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. This system ranks among the world's most advanced missile defense technologies. It intercepts short-, medium-, and long-range missiles during their terminal phase. Trainees first undergo individual instruction at Fort Bliss, followed by collective drills in Jeddah. The second batch, mirroring the first with 97 personnel, will soon begin integrated field exercises. US experts supervise the rigorous curriculum, ensuring technical mastery and operational readiness. Strategic Partnership and Localization Collaboration with the US Missile Defense Agency underscores this strategic alliance. A dedicated THAAD academy at Fort Bliss, refurbished by the US Army, trains Saudi forces. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is localizing parts of THAAD production. Partnerships with Lockheed Martin and Saudi firms aim to manufacture missile components domestically, aligning with Vision 2030 goals to boost the defense industry. Future Deployment and Regional Security Saudi Arabia plans to deploy seven THAAD batteries by 2028, with the first operational by 2026. These systems will fortify airspace security, countering threats through hit-to-kill technology. The THAAD acquisition—44 launchers, 360 missiles, and advanced radars. These systems enhance airspace security, deter regional threats, and showcase Saudi Arabia's commitment to Middle East stability. By investing in elite personnel and cutting-edge tech, the Kingdom safeguards its sovereignty while contributing to global defense innovation. This strategic leap underscores Saudi Arabia's role as a proactive guardian of regional peace. Short link : Post Views: 106
Saudi Gazette
08-04-2025
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Air Defense Forces graduate second THAAD missile system unit
Saudi Gazette report TEXAS — The Royal Saudi Air Defense Forces celebrated the graduation of the second group of personnel trained to operate the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile system, following the completion of specialized training at Fort Bliss Military Base in El Paso, Texas. The new cohort follows the first group trained earlier, as part of a broader strategy to equip Saudi forces with the skills necessary to operate and maintain the THAAD system — one of the world's most advanced missile defense platforms and a key component of the Kingdom's air defense network. The graduates underwent an intensive program that included technical and operational instruction, combat simulations, and field exercises. The training was delivered under the supervision of defense experts from the system's manufacturer and in coordination with U.S. military trainers, in line with bilateral military cooperation agreements. The program reflects the Ministry of Defense's broader efforts to enhance force readiness through specialized training and professional development. The Air Defense Forces are continuing to implement plans aimed at building national expertise capable of managing and operating sophisticated defense systems to bolster Saudi Arabia's security and safeguard its airspace. The graduation ceremony, held at Fort Bliss, was attended by the Commander of the Air Defense Forces Institute, Maj. Gen. Abdullah Al-Rubaie, representing Lt. Gen. Mazid Balamro, Commander of the Air Defense Forces, along with U.S. officials and representatives from the training agencies.
