Running until Friday, the annual drills are designed to enhance joint military capabilities, as announced by South Korea's Air Force.

The exercise features various aircraft, including versions of the F-35 stealth fighter from both the United States and South Korea. The primary objective of the drills is to bolster interoperability between the two military forces, encompassing crucial air missions such as air-to-surface live fire drills, defensive counter-air operations, and other emergency training exercises.

South Korea's military emphasized its commitment to maintaining optimal combat readiness, intending to swiftly and decisively respond to any provocations from adversaries.

The statement released by the South Korean military highlighted the intense training aimed at replicating real-life scenarios.

This exercise occurs amid heightened military collaboration between North Korea and Russia, which the United States and its Asian allies have condemned.

Concerns have arisen regarding Pyongyang's efforts to bolster its military capabilities through this partnership in exchange for Moscow's support in arms development. (ILKHA)