Seoul: South Korea and the United States have commenced their annual combined military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS), aimed at strengthening joint defense capabilities. According to Oman News Agency, the exercise, scheduled to last for 11 days, incorporates drills simulating "realistic" threats to enhance the allies' capabilities across all domains. This year, approximately 18,000 South Korean troops will participate in the drills. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) indicated that while the scale of this year's exercise is similar to last year's, around half of the 40 planned field training exercises will be postponed until September. The UFS exercise will be conducted in conjunction with a four-day civil defense exercise, engaging about 580,000 civilians. This component includes measures to defend against drone attacks and cyber threats. Additionally, a nationwide anti-air raid civil defense drill is scheduled for Wednesday as part of these efforts.