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Pakistan, US Conclude Major Phase of Counter-Terrorism Exercise ‘Inspired Gambit–2026’

By The South Asia Times

Rawalpindi: The Pakistan Army and the United States Army are jointly conducting Exercise Inspired Gambit–2026, a two-week counter-terrorism drill aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation and enhancing operational interoperability, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

The exercise, underway from January 8 to 16, marks the 13th iteration of the bilateral training series that has been held regularly since 1995. It focuses on counter-terrorism operations, exchange of operational experiences, and refinement of tactics, techniques, and procedures.

A Distinguished Visitors’ Day ceremony was held on January 15 at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Pabbi, where senior military and diplomatic officials observed the proceedings. The event was attended by Ms. Natalie Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States to Pakistan, accompanied by senior U.S. military dignitaries, along with the Commander Rawalpindi Corps.

According to ISPR, the visitors were briefed on the scope, objectives, and conduct of the exercise. Participants from both armies demonstrated a high level of professionalism and operational competence, which was appreciated by the visiting dignitaries.

The military’s media wing said the exercise aims to enhance bilateral cooperation through the sharing of counter-terrorism experiences, improving joint operational readiness, and developing interoperability between the two forces.

Exercise Inspired Gambit–2026 reflects the continued commitment of Pakistan and the United States to strengthening defense ties and jointly addressing regional and global security challenges through structured military engagement and professional collaboration.