Beijing and Moscow have begun joint naval drills in the Sea of Japan, with exercises scheduled to last for three days. The Joint Sea-2025 drills began in waters near Vladivostok, Russia’s port city, as part of a growing military partnership between the two nations.
China has been providing an economic lifeline to Russia since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022, and their strategic partnership is seen as a response to what they view as a US-led global order. The exercises will involve “submarine rescue, joint anti-submarine, air defence and anti-missile operations, and maritime combat”, with four Chinese vessels participating alongside Russian ships.
China and Russia have conducted annual Joint Sea drills since 2012, but this year’s exercises are notable for taking place in the Sea of Japan. The drills come as Japan’s Ministry of Defence warned that China’s growing military cooperation with Russia poses serious security concerns.
The exercise is described by the Russian Navy Pacific Fleet as “defensive in nature and not directed against other countries”. However, the implications of the partnership have raised concerns among Ukraine’s allies, including the US. Beijing claims to be a neutral party, but has provided support to Moscow during the conflict.
Following the drills, China and Russia will conduct naval patrols in relevant waters of the Pacific. The exercises mark a significant development in their strategic partnership and highlight the increasing importance of regional military cooperation.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/3/china-and-russia-begin-joint-military-drills-in-sea-of-japan