China, Russia, and Iran to Hold Military Drills in the Indian Ocean Off the Coast of Iran
The joint naval maneuvers "Security Belt-2025" will commence this month near the port of Chabahar. The objective is to strengthen military trust and coordinate actions.
Photo: wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
China, Russia, and Iran will conduct the joint naval exercises "Security Belt-2025" in the Indian Ocean in March, according to the Chinese Ministry of Defense, as reported by myNEWS.
The maneuvers will take place near the Iranian port of Chabahar on the coast of Oman. The goal is to enhance military cooperation and test joint operations in crisis situations.
The exercise program includes strikes on naval targets, search and rescue operations, and the inspection of suspicious vessels.
China will send the destroyer "Baotou" and the supply ship "Gaoyuhu" from the 47th escort group of the PLA Navy. The full group also includes the frigate "Honghe" and two deck helicopters.
Last year, the exercises took place from March 11 to 15, focusing on anti-piracy and rescue operations. The participants included China's 45th escort group, Russia's Pacific Fleet, and more than ten Iranian vessels. The current composition of Russian and Iranian forces has not yet been confirmed.
The drills are being conducted amid increased cooperation between the three countries. In January, the presidents of Russia and Iran signed an agreement to expand defense collaboration.
The region of the maneuvers is strategically significant: the Oman Gulf serves as a key route for oil and gas supplies.
It was also revealed that from February 23 to March 9, Canada, together with NATO allies, conducted the largest military exercises in the Arctic—Operation NANOOK-NUNALIVUT, aimed at strengthening security and coordination.