In a significant demonstration of military cooperation, China, Russia, and Iran recently conducted joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman as part of the Maritime Security Belt 2025 exercise.

The exercise, held near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, marks the fifth consecutive year that these three nations have come together for this important security operation.

The drills, which took place amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly around Iran’s nuclear ambitions and threats from Yemen’s Houthi rebels, highlight a growing alliance in the region that has important implications for the US and the West.

Details of the Maritime Security Belt 2025 Drills

The Maritime Security Belt 2025 exercise focused on ensuring maritime security and countering maritime threats, a key concern for the region, which is home to some of the world’s busiest and most critical shipping routes.

The Gulf of Oman, adjacent to the Strait of Hormuz, is particularly vital as it handles about a fifth of the global crude oil trade.

Over the course of the exercise, naval ships from the Russian Navy, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), and the Iranian Navy worked together in a series of tactical operations, including joint naval gunfire, search-and-rescue missions, and anti-piracy drills.

The drill involved several key vessels, including the Russian corvettes RFS Rezky and Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov, as well as the Chinese guided-missile destroyer Baotou and the supply ship Gaoyouhu.

Iran deployed a total of 10 ships, including frigates IRIS Alvand and IRIS Jamaran, alongside its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) vessels.