Iranian, Chinese, and Russian naval forces conducted joint day-and-night aerial target engagement operations in the northern Indian Ocean as part of the Maritime Security Belt 2025 drill.

Why it matters:

This joint live-fire exercise, requiring precise coordination and step-by-step execution, is one of the most significant naval training operations. It successfully complemented the daytime firing exercises conducted earlier.

The big picture:

The drill was based on a shared tactical language among the naval forces of Iran—including the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy—as well as the navies of China and Russia. This level of coordination underscores the growing military cooperation among the three nations and enhances regional maritime security.

What he's saying:

Rear Admiral Mostafa Tajeddini, Deputy Operations Commander of the Iranian Navy and the drill's spokesperson, highlighted the difference between this year's Maritime Security Belt 2025 exercise and previous editions. He emphasized the increase in participating units and nations, as well as the significant involvement of aerial units, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, across the operational zone.

Key points:

  • Iran, China, and Russia jointly executed day-and-night aerial engagement exercises.
  • The drill required a high level of coordination and operational precision.
  • It was based on a unified tactical framework among the participating navies.
  • Increased involvement of aerial units marked a notable expansion of the exercise's scope.

Go deeper:

Iran, Russia, and China to Hold Seventh Joint Naval Exercise in 2025

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ahmad shirzadian