The Ministry of National Defense of China announced on Monday that China, Russia and Iran will be conducting a five-day long annual exercise “Maritime Security Belt – 2024.” The drill will involve warships and aviation units in the Gulf of Oman, amidst the continuing attacks by the Houthis in the region.
The Iranian light frigate Jamaran, will operate with Russian and Chinese navies in the presence of representatives from Oman, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and South Africa. Representatives of these countries will act as observers of the naval exercise according to the Iranian news outlet NourNews
The Chinese Navy will be led by its South Sea Fleet destroyer, the Nanning, while the Russian Fleet will be represented by Admiral Gorshkov-class frigate and the medium-sized sea tanker Kama, according to South China Morning Post.
The exercise aims to strengthen regional security and protect international maritime trade, according to NourNews. Since the Israel-Hamas conflict began in October last year, the Arabian Sea routes have faced Houthi attacks disrupting shipping through the Red Sea. The safety of the sea routes in the region is crucial for international commercial trade.
China’s proximity with the Gulf countries poses a geopolitical challenge to India. The Gulf is strategically important for India for its energy requirements and international trade, a major portion of which traverses the Arabian Sea.
The Indian navy has successfully engaged in various counter-piracy and rescue operations in the western Indian Ocean region. However, safeguarding international shipping in the vast expanse remains a major challenge.
Team Bharatshakti
