Pakistan and China Begin Karakoram 2026 Joint Army Training

Pakistan and China have begun Karakoram 2026, described as their first-ever joint army training exercise, in China’s northwestern Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The opening ceremony was held at a training base in Korla, where personnel from both sides began exchanges focused on counterterrorism skills and operational coordination.

The exercise is centred on counterterrorism operations in high-altitude terrain. Planned activities include training in unmanned aerial vehicle operations, target search and firing while on the move, long-range sniping, joint command procedures and live-force drills.

Pakistani troops observed Chinese military equipment during the opening activities, while the two sides exchanged experience in counterterrorism. Chinese equipment being used in the exercise includes rifles, machine guns, armoured assault vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles, artillery and unmanned and counter-unmanned systems.

The programme is intended to strengthen interoperability between the two armies in responding to security threats. Its focus on mountain and plateau conditions is significant because such environments can present distinct logistical, communications and mobility challenges for military units.

Pakistan and China already maintain broad defence cooperation, including border-security coordination and recurring counterterrorism engagements. Personnel from the two countries also conducted joint patrol activity at the Khunjerab Pass in Hunza earlier this year to reinforce coordination along the border.

In late 2025, the Pakistan Army and the People’s Liberation Army held the ninth edition of the Warrior counterterrorism exercise series. Karakoram 2026 adds a new army-training format to that wider relationship, combining equipment familiarisation with joint field and command activity.

The launch comes as both countries continue to emphasise security cooperation and regional stability. The training is expected to provide a practical setting for participants to refine procedures, exchange operational experience and assess how their forces can work together during complex counterterrorism missions.