Iran, China, and Russia engage in live-fire exercises during joint naval maneuvers
According to a spokesperson for the Security Belt-2025 joint naval exercise, naval units from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Russia, and China have successfully completed both day and night shooting exercises targeting aerial threats. These operations took place as part of ongoing drills in the northern region of the Indian Ocean.
Rear Admiral Mostafa Tajeddini announced on Tuesday that coordinated shooting exercises against aerial targets, both during the day and night, necessitate precise planning and directives. The exercise scenario has been crafted with a shared tactical approach, engaging the naval forces of Iran, including the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy, in conjunction with their Chinese and Russian counterparts.
He stated that the current iteration of the Security Belt-2025 naval military exercise distinguishes itself from earlier editions by featuring an increased number of participating units and countries. Additionally, the drill sees heightened involvement from airborne units, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft operating extensively within the exercise area.
Tajeddini previously stated that the primary objective of the Security Belt-2025 exercises is to bolster maritime security in the northern Indian Ocean. These drills aim to enhance trilateral maritime collaboration among Iran, Russia, and China, focusing on advancing cooperative efforts, conducting skills training, and facilitating the exchange of expertise.
He highlighted that the joint maritime exercises will encompass an array of scenarios, including a simulated rescue operation, visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) activities, a fire response drill, a heliborne operation, and numerous other training exercises.
Tajeddini announced that a naval parade is scheduled to take place subsequent to the simulated rescue exercise.
A senior Iranian naval official announced that a comprehensive debriefing and in-depth analysis of the joint naval exercise are scheduled to take place following the conclusion of the maneuvers.
On Tuesday, naval forces from Iran, China, and Russia successfully participated in the “Photo Ex” exercise, demonstrating coordinated tactical formation and alignment maneuvers.
The Security Belt-2025 marks the fifth iteration of joint naval exercises conducted by China, Iran, and Russia since their initial collaboration in 2019.
