Five Russian warships and four Chinese warships have embarked on a joint patrol mission in the Pacific Ocean, announced by Moscow on Friday. This marks the third such operation conducted by the navies of the two countries, indicating the deepening military cooperation between Russia and China in recent years.
The vessels set sail from Vladivostok, a major port city in Russia’s Far East, following a pre-agreed route, as stated by the Russian Defense Ministry. The primary objectives of this mission, as outlined in the ministry’s statement, are to strengthen naval cooperation between the two nations, maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, monitor the sea area, and protect the maritime economic facilities of Russia and China.
During the joint patrol, Russian and Chinese sailors will engage in various exercises aimed at enhancing their defensive capabilities. These exercises will include practicing defensive measures, refueling on the move, and conducting anti-submarine activities, according to the defense ministry. Furthermore, both countries’ helicopters will participate in missions that involve landing on each other’s vessels, further reinforcing the cooperation between the two forces.
Additionally, the Russian Pacific Fleet’s aviation and the People’s Liberation Army of China will collaborate with the ships during the mission, according to Moscow.
It is important to note that the Chinese Defense Ministry explicitly stated that this joint drill “doesn’t target any third party and has nothing to do with the current international and regional situation.” This statement is likely a response to concerns about the potential implications of such military cooperation in the context of existing geopolitical tensions.
This joint patrol follows the participation of Russian and Chinese navies in the ‘Northern/Interaction-2023’ wargames in the Sea of Japan earlier in July. These drills involved a series of 20 combat exercises, including joint artillery firing at seaborne, coastal, and air targets. The increasing frequency and scale of these joint military exercises demonstrate the growing economic and military ties between Moscow and Beijing since Russia’s operation in Ukraine in February 2022.
According to the US National Defense University, the two countries conducted six joint drills last year, an unprecedented number in the past two decades. This highlights the significant value both Russia and China place on their military cooperation.
During a visit to China earlier in June, the head of the Russian Navy, Nikolay Evmenov, emphasized the importance of enhancing military cooperation with Beijing. Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu expressed confidence in the regular organization of joint exercises and strengthened communication at all levels between the two nations.
Overall, the joint patrol mission in the Pacific Ocean reaffirms the commitment of Russia and China to deepening their military ties and underscores the importance of upholding peace and stability in the region. The joint exercises and drills provide opportunities for both navies to enhance their operational readiness and interoperability, fostering closer cooperation between the two nations.
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