Why it matters:
The joint exercise underscores Tehran and Moscow’s commitment to strengthening indigenous security frameworks in West Asia and countering destabilizing foreign military presence near vital waterways, including routes linked to the Persian Gulf.
The big picture:
As extra-regional powers expand their military footprint in West Asia’s strategic waters, Iran and Russia are deepening defense coordination to ensure that regional states take the lead in safeguarding maritime trade and energy corridors. The drill reflects a broader shift toward multipolar security arrangements centered on cooperation among independent powers rather than reliance on U.S.-led coalitions.
Context:
Right besided the naval drills zone, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) kicked off Smart Control Over Hormoz Strait drill in the Persian Gulf yesterday.
What they're saying:
Commander of the First Naval District of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy, Captain Hassan Maghsoodloo: "The drill aims to enhance sustainable maritime interactions, strengthen joint naval cooperation, and improve coordination in countering threats to maritime security."
Captain Maghsoodloo highlighted that protecting commercial vessels and tankers, combating maritime terrorism, and reinforcing convergence between the Iranian and Russian navies are central objectives.
Commander of the Russian Navy, Captain Alexey Sergeev praised Iran’s hosting of the drill. He emphasized that the friendly relations between Tehran and Moscow enable the two nations to address maritime challenges through unity and constructive engagement.
Key points:
- The drill will take place in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean.
- It will be hosted in the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas.
- Focal areas include coordinated action against threats to maritime safety.
- The exercise prioritizes regional cooperation led by neighboring states.
- Iran and Russia aim to deepen long-term naval interoperability.
Go deeper:
Iran has consistently maintained that maritime security in West Asia must be ensured by regional countries without interference from the U.S. or its allies. Joint naval initiatives with strategic partners such as Russia reflect Tehran’s broader doctrine of resistance and sovereign defense cooperation.
Iran, Russia, and China to Hold Seventh Joint Naval Exercise in 2025
Hossein Vaez - seyed mohammad kazemi
