China, Russia and Iran on Saturday launched joint naval exercises under the “BRICS Plus” framework in South African waters, signalling deepening military cooperation among the three nations.
The drills are taking place near Cape Town, with participating vessels docking at the Simon’s Town Naval Base ahead of the exercises. South Africa is hosting the operations, which are expected to focus on maritime security, search-and-rescue missions, and coordinated naval manoeuvres.
A Russian naval vessel arrived at the base on Friday, as part of preparations for the drills that officials say are aimed at strengthening cooperation and interoperability among participating countries.
The exercises come at a time of heightened global geopolitical tensions and reflect the growing strategic alignment among BRICS nations and their partners, particularly in response to Western-led security alliances.
South African authorities have said the exercises are routine and defensive in nature, emphasising that the country remains committed to peaceful international cooperation while maintaining strong ties with multiple global partners.
The “BRICS Plus” grouping expands on the original BRICS bloc — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — by involving additional strategic partners in economic, political and security cooperation initiatives.
