YANGON, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar army and air forces have conducted a joint military exercise in Mandalay region, aiming to enhance security and defense of the country and to raise the capability of the armed forces, Myanmar News Agency reported Friday.

The joint exercise was observed and inspected on Thursday by Commander-in-Chief of the Defense Services Sen-Gen Min Aung Hlaing.

He said in his address to the participants that the armed forces are performing the duty of defending the country and it has to be done through preparatory and practice exercise.

He stressed the important role of air-defense capability in modern warfare as well as the effectiveness and accuracy of the arms and ammunition, calling for conducting continuous research by related forces.

"The entire Tatmadaw (armed forces) must be able to use these arms and ammunition expertly so exercises must be conducted continuously," he said.

Myanmar's armed forces have designated "Study, Practice and Follow Up" as the motto to be battle ready for its national defense.