Chinese, Russian and Iranian Warships Arrive in South Africa for Drills
Warships from China, Russia and Iran have arrived in South African waters to take part in week-long joint naval exercises, amid heightened global tensions following US military action in Venezuela and the seizure of several oil tankers.
The participating countries say the drills are aimed at conducting joint operations to safeguard major shipping lanes and economic activities. The exercises include strikes on maritime targets as well as counterterrorism and rescue components.
Vessels from the three nations were seen entering and leaving Simon’s Town harbour near Cape Town, home to South Africa’s main naval base. It remains unclear whether other BRICS countries will join the exercises.
South Africa’s defence forces said the drills would allow participating navies to share best practices and enhance joint operational capabilities, contributing to maritime security and regional stability.
The exercises have sparked debate within South Africa, with some political parties criticising the government for hosting Russian and Iranian warships. Authorities, however, insist the drills were planned long in advance and are not aimed at any specific country.
