US and Saudi Arabia Conduct Anti-Drone Exercise 'Red Sands'

The United States and Saudi Arabia held a "combined anti-drone exercise." On Thursday, US Central Command, CENTCOM, stated that General Michael Eric Kurilla, the commander of CENTCOM, along with the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Saudi Arabia, observed the second exercise of the "Integrated Test Center Red Sands." CENTCOM claims that the "Red Sands 23.2" exercise demonstrates significant progress by both countries in defeating unmanned aerial systems. According to CENTCOM, the "Red Sands 23.2" exercise was conducted using advancements from previous exercises. General Kurilla described the drone threat as "real" and stated, "The Integrated Test Center Red Sands represents an important step, not only in defeating drone threats but also in demonstrating the joint commitment of Saudi and US forces to regional security." This exercise took place as some Western experts expressed concern over China's increasing influence in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Gulf countries are also worried about Iran's drone and missile programs. Saudi Arabia executed two of its soldiers on charges of "treason." The continuation of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia; coalition forces shot down suicide drones. CBS News: Attacks on Saudi oil facilities were conducted with Khamenei's approval. Lavrov: Iran will join "Shanghai"; an expert: The Islamic Republic seeks a "protective umbrella." Saudi Arabia joins the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Report: The US and Saudi Arabia are considering a potential railway network project in the Middle East.