“Our aircraft purchase plan is progressing well. We don’t face any obstacles,” he said.

Miteb made this comment while attending a graduation ceremony for the infantry regiment of the Prince Turki Brigade in Khashm Al-An, near Riyadh.

He did not say what kind of aircraft the National Guard was looking for. However, he pointed out that his organization required aircraft with certain specifications. “It will take time as such planes will not be readily available like cars,” he pointed out.

Miteb said the National Guard is ready to face any eventualities. “Our forces are always well-prepared to carry out its national duty, whenever it is required,” the Saudi Press Agency quoted him as saying.

The prince urged the newly graduated officers to work hard in the service of the nation. He praised the high standard of military training they received. He also watched a demonstration by graduates displaying their various military skills.

He later visited an exhibition organized by the National Guard, displaying its efforts to fight drugs smuggling. The prince urged all Saudis to support the government’s endeavors to combat the social evil.

The function was attended by Abdul Mohsen Al-Tuwaijri, assistant deputy commander, Maj. Gen. Turki bin Abdullah, commander of the brigade, and other senior officers of the National Guard.

“We are happy that this graduation ceremony coincides with the sixth anniversary of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah’s rule,” said Maj. Gen. Turki. He underscored the tremendous progress achieved by Saudi Arabia during the king’s reign.