Israeli Air Force planes returned from the United States this week after participating in the Red Flag, considered to be the biggest and best war simulation exercises in the world, with countries like Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates with whom Israel does not have diplomatic relations.

The website of the Nellis Air Force base in Nevada, where the Red Flag advanced combat training exercise was held, stated that the Spanish Air Force participated in the large-scale military exercise alongside planes from Israel, Pakistan, the UAE and the United States.

The head of the Israel Air Forces training department, Colonel Amit, while talking to military correspondents refused to discuss the identity of the nations that participated in Red Flag but confirmed that it was done jointly with other countries, Haaretz reported.

We train together with anyone who attends the exercise. We have no say in the matter, he said.

In a group it is impossible to hide your level. If you did not carry out the mission given to you, everyone sees it, said the defence official to emphasise the importance of the thorough preparedness.

Earlier, in response to a question on Israels participation in the prestigious exercise alongside Pakistan, an Israel Defence Forces spokesperson had said that the IDF trains regularly to maintain operational competency and be prepared for any potential challenge.

The Israeli Air Force was invited to participate in the high quality exercise Red Flag, and has accepted favourably, she had said.

Eight Israeli F-16I ('Sufa' or Storm) fighter jets took part in the exercise this year, along with Israeli refueling planes.

Image for representation only. Photograph: Amir Cohen/Reuters