The Security Belt-2025 joint naval exercise involving China, Iran and Russia began on March 9 in the waters off the southern Iranian city of Chabahar. © Reuters
BEIJING (Kyodo) — China, Russia and Iran have begun joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman to strengthen mutual trust between their forces and foster cooperation, the Chinese Defense Ministry said Monday.
The five-day “Security Belt-2025” exercise, which began Sunday in waters off the southern Iranian city of Chabahar, involves simulated attacks on maritime targets and joint search and rescue efforts. The Chinese fleet comprises a destroyer and a supply ship, the ministry said.
The exercise is being held as U.S. President Donald Trump restores “maximum pressure” on Iran to prevent it from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
Russia’s Tass news agency said the joint naval maneuvers involve 15 combat ships, support vessels and gunboats, as well as helicopters.
Countries including South Africa, Pakistan and Oman have sent observers to the exercise, according to the Chinese navy.
The article appeared in the asia.nikkei