ISLAMABAD: Amid persistent regional security challenges posed bytransnational terrorism, the Pakistan Army and the United States Army havesuccessfully concluded the 13th iteration of their bilateral joint exerciseInspired Gambit 2026. This two-week training programme, held from January 8to 16 at the National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi, underscores arenewed commitment to enhancing interoperability and sharing expertise incounter-terrorism operations. The exercise, which began amid ongoingthreats in South Asia, has drawn attention for its focus on practicaldrills that could shape future collaborative efforts between the twolongstanding allies.
The launch of Inspired Gambit 2026 on January 9 marked a significantmilestone in Pakistan-US defence relations, which have endured fluctuationsover the decades. Professional contingents from both armies engaged inintensive scenarios emphasising marksmanship in urban warfare,understanding each other’s operational doctrines, and refining bestpractices. Such activities are designed to build mutual trust andoperational synergy, allowing forces to respond more effectively to complexenvironments where terrorists exploit urban settings and cross-bordernetworks.
This edition of the exercise assumes added importance given the evolvingnature of security threats in the region. Pakistan continues to facechallenges from militant groups operating near the Afghan border, withrecent intelligence-based operations eliminating several operatives. TheUnited States, meanwhile, maintains strategic interests in counteringglobal terrorism networks that could impact its homeland security. Jointtraining like Inspired Gambit provides a platform to address these sharedconcerns through realistic simulations, thereby improving preparednesswithout direct combat involvement.
Since its inception in 1995, the Inspired Gambit series has evolved into acornerstone of bilateral military engagement. Spanning over three decades,the 13 iterations have consistently focused on counter-terrorism, adaptingto emerging tactics such as improvised explosive devices, hostage rescue,and intelligence sharing. This longevity reflects the institutionalresilience of defence ties between Islamabad and Washington, even duringperiods of diplomatic strain over broader geopolitical issues includingAfghanistan and regional alliances.
A key highlight of Inspired Gambit 2026 was the Distinguished Visitors’ Dayceremony held on January 15 at the NCTC. US Chargé d’Affaires NatalieBaker, accompanied by senior American military officials and the CommanderRawalpindi Corps, attended the event. Participants received detailedbriefings on the exercise’s objectives, scope, and conduct. Demonstrationsshowcased high levels of professionalism, discipline, and tacticalproficiency, earning appreciation from the visiting delegation andreinforcing the value of sustained interaction.
The exercise’s emphasis on interoperability extends beyond immediatetraining outcomes. By exchanging counter-terrorism experiences and refiningdrills, both armies enhance their ability to operate jointly inmultinational frameworks. This is particularly relevant in an era wherethreats transcend national boundaries, requiring coordinated responses.Analysts note that such initiatives contribute to regional stability bybuilding capacities that deter potential adversaries and promote peacethrough strength.
Pakistan’s National Counter Terrorism Centre in Pabbi has emerged as apremier facility for international joint exercises. It has hosted similardrills with partners including China, underscoring its role in fosteringdiverse defence collaborations. For the United States, participation inInspired Gambit aligns with broader objectives of maintainingmilitary-to-military contacts in South Asia, focusing on areas of mutualinterest like counter-terrorism while navigating complex bilateral dynamics.
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The conclusion of Inspired Gambit 2026 on January 16 signals not an end buta continuation of strategic cooperation. Both sides have described theexercise as vital for addressing evolving challenges, improvingprofessional standards, and strengthening capacities in complexcounter-terrorism environments. This reflects a pragmatic approach topartnership, prioritising practical outcomes over political rhetoric.
Defence cooperation between Pakistan and the United States has historicallyincluded training, equipment support, and joint operations. Despite pasttensions, institutional mechanisms have preserved core elements ofengagement. Exercises like Inspired Gambit serve as tangible evidence ofthis continuity, fostering long-term ties that benefit regional security.
National Counter Terrorism Centre
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