China, Russia, and Iran today began week-long joint naval exercises in the waters off South Africa.
The drills, named by South Africa—the host country of “BRICS Plus”—are being held with the aim of ensuring maritime transport security and supporting economic activities at sea.
According to military officials participating in the exercises, the drills are conducted within the framework of expanding maritime cooperation among BRICS Plus members.
In a statement, the South African military said the exercises focus on joint maritime security operations and enhancing operational coordination among the naval forces of BRICS member countries. The statement added that Brazil, Egypt, and Ethiopia are also attending the drills as observers.
