South Korea's military unit in the United Arab Emirates, known as the Akh unit, recently conducted joint anti-terrorism drills with UAE troops, marking the first combined exercise of the year, Yonhap reported, citing South Korean officials.
Various drills were held, including hostage rescue operations, sniper shooting from helicopters and close-quarters combat scenarios related to ship hijacking and illegal arms transfers. According to the media outlet, the exercise aimed to enhance cooperative capabilities in ground-based and maritime anti-terrorism operations and the unit is preparing for joint drills with UAE troops focused on directing fire support later this year.
The exercise follows the agreement between the two nations to reinforce defense and arms industry cooperation, building upon the "special strategic partnership" established in 2018.