Russia and China have commenced their joint naval exercises, dubbed “Beibu/Interaction – 2024,” in the Sea of Japan, marking the latest development in their bilateral military cooperation. The exercises, which began on Saturday, involve a combined fleet of warships from Russia’s Pacific Fleet and the Chinese Navy, having set out from Vladivostok.
These drills are designed to enhance the interoperability of both navies, with a focus on anti-aircraft and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. This comes on the heels of the “Ocean-2024” naval drills, where Russia and China practiced missile and artillery firing, demonstrating their commitment to strengthening their maritime partnership.
The joint exercises are seen as a strategic move to counterbalance the influence of the United States in the Pacific region, as emphasized by Russian President Vladimir Putin. This cooperation underscores the growing ties between Moscow and Beijing, with implications for regional security dynamics.
The development is likely to be closely monitored by regional actors, including Japan and the US, given the strategic significance of the Sea of Japan. As the exercises unfold, the international community will be watching closely to assess the implications for regional security and global geopolitics.
