Iran, Russia, China to hold joint naval drill in coming weeks: Top cmdr.

The commander of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy says naval forces from Iran, Russia and China are set to hold a joint maritime drill in the coming weeks.

Rear Admiral Shahram Irani made the announcement on Monday, and said the joint exercise will be staged before the the current Iranian year ends on March 19 with the aim of maintaining security in the West Asia region.

Stressing that a number of other countries have also been invited to participate in the joint drill alongside Iran, Russia and China, the high-ranking commander said the most important strategy of the Iranian Navy under the current circumstances is to preserve and protect the interests and economic resources of the country.

Irani added that the exercise will be held with the purpose of ensuring regional security and fulfilling common interests.

“We protect the Islamic Republic of Iran’s shipping and assist countries that need support to ensure security and safety,” he added.

Irani also underlined that several ships are expected to join the Iranian Navy fleet by the end of the year.

The Iranian naval forces and their Chinese and Russian counterparts have held several military drills in recent years to enhance the security and stability of international maritime trade.

They have also been involved in joint efforts aimed at countering piracy and maritime terrorism, exchanging information in naval rescue and relief operations as well as sharing operational and tactical experience.

In March 2023, the Iranian, Chinese and Russian naval forces staged the 2023 Marine Security Belt war game in the northern parts of the Indian Ocean, which was the fourth joint exercise in recent years.