The navies of China, Iran, and Russia concluded a series of maritime exercises around the Iranian port of Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman as part of the joint maneuvers they are conducting. During these exercises, operations were simulated for rescuing 'hijacked' commercial vessels in order to strengthen the naval capabilities of the three countries to face security threats.
In the operation carried out over two days near the port of Chabahar, attacks on maritime targets, boardings, damage control, and joint search and rescue operations were conducted. According to state television CCTV, the maneuvers included live fire from heavy machine guns, night shooting practice with live fire, and the simulated rescue of hijacked commercial vessels.
Zhang Junshe, an expert on Chinese military affairs, mentioned that the exercise focused on combating maritime terrorism and piracy. Called 'Security Links 2025', these annual exercises aim to deepen mutual military trust and cooperation among the armies of the participating countries, according to a statement from the Chinese defense ministry.
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy of China sent the destroyer Baotou and the supply ship Gaoyouhu to participate in the maneuvers. It is worth noting that similar exercises were held last year in the Gulf of Oman, and this year they will coincide with a trilateral meeting between China, Russia, and Iran regarding the Iranian 'nuclear issue'.
These joint military exercises aim to strengthen cooperation among the navies of China, Iran, and Russia, as well as enhance their capabilities to address potential security threats in the maritime region.
