Why it matters:
This joint naval exercise represents a significant escalation in military cooperation between Iran and Russia at a time when both nations face increasing pressure from Western powers.
The Big Picture:
Taking place in the northern Indian Ocean, a vital artery for global energy supplies and East-West trade, the exercise serves as a counter-weight to NATO’s presence and the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet in the region. By conducting joint operations and exchanging technical knowledge (exemplified by the Russian tour of Iranian naval facilities and the Jamaran destroyer), both nations are building an interoperable military framework. This partnership aims to reshape the regional security architecture, shifting influence away from traditional Western-led coalitions and toward a multipolar order where Iran and Russia assert greater control over maritime security.
What they're saying:
Rear Admiral Hassan Maqsoudlou, Commander of the First Naval Region of the Iranian Navy, and spokesman for the exercise, stated that the main goal of the maneuver is to enhance sustainable maritime security and interactions in the region. "The development of joint naval cooperation and the strengthening of relations between the naval forces of the two countries in designing and executing combined operations are among the objectives of this drill," he said.
He outlined the main axes of this joint exercise as creating convergence to counter maritime security threats, protecting commercial vessels and oil tankers, and combating maritime terrorism.
Ahead of the exercise, the Russian Navy's helicopter carrier, Stoishky, docked yesterday at the jetty of the First Naval Region in Bandar Abbas, joining the participating group in the maneuver.
Today, Admiral Maqsoudlou visited the Russian vessel and toured its various sections. During the visit, the capabilities and equipment of the Stoishky were presented, and both sides discussed the development of joint cooperation and the enhancement of maritime coordination.
Captain First Rank Alexey Sergeev, commander of the Russian task force, thanked Iran for its hospitality and described the level of interaction between the two countries as a sign of their ability to manage maritime challenges. He emphasized readiness to hold joint exercises in any area.
According to the report, a group of Russian naval personnel also visited the naval industries' facilities and the Islamic Republic of Iran's destroyer, Jamaran.
Go deeper:
Iran, Russia to Launch Joint Naval Drill in Oman Sea Tomorrow
Hossein Amiri - Mojtaba Darabi
