China, Iran, and Russia Stage Joint Naval Drills in Gulf of Oman

The naval forces of China, Iran, and Russia launched a joint exercise near the Gulf of Oman, aimed at safeguarding regional maritime security. The “Security Belt-2024” exercise marks the fourth time these countries have conducted such a drill since 2019.

Security Belt-2024 Exercise Details

1. Duration: The exercise commenced on Monday and will continue until Friday.
2. Theme: “Jointly Building Peace and Security”
3. Phases: The exercise is divided into three phases: harbor phase, sea phase, and summarize phase.
4. Training Courses: The main focus is on anti-piracy and search and rescue operations.

Participating Forces

1. China: Three warships from the 45th escort task force, including the guided missile destroyer Urumqi, the guided missile frigate Linyi, and the comprehensive replenishment ship Dongpinghu.
2. Iran: Over 10 vessels, including the frigates Alborz and Jamaran.
3. Russia: The guided missile cruiser Varyag and the large anti-submarine warfare ship Marshal Shaposhnikov.

Objectives and Significance

1. Enhancing cooperation and exchanges among the three navies.
2. Displaying the collective will and capability to safeguard maritime security.
3. Contributing to the building of a maritime community with a shared future.
4. Boosting traditional friendship and interoperability at sea.
5. Elevating pragmatic cooperation and ensuring navigation safety in international sea lanes.

Observer Countries

Envoys from Azerbaijan, India, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa are attending the exercise as observers, signaling recognition of the drill’s objectives.

Non-Confrontational Approach

According to experts, the exercise does not target any third country or current regional tensions. It aims to promote peace and stability in the region, with a multilateral and inclusive approach.

Debunking Western Narratives

Chinese military experts have dismissed Western media reports linking the trilateral exercise to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. They emphasized that the Gulf of Oman is a crucial international sea lane that requires peace and stability, which the exercise aims to facilitate.

The joint naval drills between China, Iran, and Russia highlight their commitment to enhancing maritime security through cooperation and regular exercises, without targeting any specific country or conflict.