One hundred jet fighters from 10 friendly countries will be taking part today (April 8) in a major military exercise organised by the Bahrain Defence Force.

Basic Liaison Drill 2012 is one of the Royal Bahraini Air Force's (RBAF) training schemes in collaboration with other countries to maintain security and stability in the Gulf.

The drill aims to enhance competence of pilots and technicians in air forces as well as support and manoeuvre units.

This year's drill is the biggest since 1988.

RBAF held a preparatory meeting with representatives of participating countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, the US and host country Bahrain.

Preparations were reviewed alongside combat readiness aspired to be achieved.

The BDF stressed resolve to continue upgrading its weaponry and its affiliates' capabilities according to international standards and in line with the continuous directives of BDF General Command officials, including Commander-in-Chief Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa. – TradeArabia News Service