KUWAIT: The large-scale joint drill “Al-Jabriya 1”, led by Kuwait Air Force, concluded Thursday with participation from the Ministry of Interior, Commando Brigade 25, the Ministry of Health, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, and Kuwait Airways, while the National Guard took part as observers. The exercise simulated a hijacked aircraft and a hostage rescue operation, aiming to develop command, control, and communication systems and boost operational preparedness in realistic scenarios.
The drill coincides with the 36th anniversary of the return of the Al-Jabriya flight to Kuwait, a historic event that shaped the nation’s approach to security and crisis management. On April 5, 1988, Kuwait Airways Flight 422 was hijacked by terrorists during its flight from Bangkok to Kuwait, leading to a tense 16-day standoff. The aircraft was diverted to multiple countries, including Iran, Cyprus, and Algeria, as Kuwait negotiated for the safe release of the passengers. The crisis ended on April 20, 1988, when the hijackers freed the hostages, and the plane returned to Kuwait on April 21.
KUWAIT: Participants from Kuwait’s security, military and civil sectors simulate a hijacked aircraft and a hostage rescue operation as part of the large-scale joint drill “Al-Jabriya 1″ held at Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base. — KUNA photos
Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Sabah observes the live drill along with senior Kuwaiti officials.
Participants from Kuwait’s security, military and civil sectors simulate a hijacked aircraft and a hostage rescue operation as part of the large-scale joint drill “Al-Jabriya 1″ held at Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base.
Participants from Kuwait’s security, military and civil sectors simulate a hijacked aircraft and a hostage rescue operation as part of the large-scale joint drill “Al-Jabriya 1″ held at Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base.
Lieutenant General Pilot Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Deputy Chief of the General Staff, emphasized that the primary goal of the drill was to unite all entities under a shared mission — fostering joint action and reinforcing a spirit of teamwork across institutions. Minister of Defense and Acting Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Sabah described the drill as a successful model of inter-agency cooperation among military, security, and civil sectors. He noted that such collaboration enhances readiness and operational efficiency in facing evolving challenges.
According to a Ministry of Defense press release, Sheikh Abdullah sponsored and attended the closing ceremony at Abdullah Al-Mubarak Air Base. He and other senior officials then observed a live field scenario that demonstrated high-level coordination and execution under realistic operational conditions. The minister underscored the importance of seamless coordination across state institutions in managing crises and security emergencies. He praised the professionalism, discipline, and high morale of all participants and affirmed that drills like Al-Jabriya 1 play a crucial role in reinforcing national security readiness.
He concluded by praying for Allah’s protection over Kuwait and for continued security and stability under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and His Highness the Crown Prince. Lt Gen Al-Sabah echoed these sentiments, stating that the Al-Jabriya 1 exercise exemplifies coordination and integration across sectors, helping build unified responses to emergencies. He commended the commitment of all involved, stressing that structured teamwork is essential to advancing collective preparedness. — Agencies
