TEHRAN, Feb. 24 (MNA) – South Korea and the US held joint air drills with F-35 fighters, the South Korean Air Force said on Friday.

The exercise featured advanced F-35A fighter jets from both nations in a united front amid rising tensions with North Korea, Seoul-based Yonhap reported.

Focused on refining joint operational capabilities, the drills showcased the prowess of the latest-generation stealth fighters alongside South Korean KF-16s, F-15Ks, and other aircraft.

The Air Force noted that F-35As engaged in defensive counter-air maneuvers.

This comes just days after North Korea's fifth missile launch this year. North Korea says that the US military presence in the region destabilizes the region.

AMK/PR