South Africa hosts joint naval exercise with China, Russia, and Iran

CAPE TOWN, Jan. 10 (YPA) -South Africa is hosting a joint naval exercise titled “Will of Peace”, with the participation of the naval forces of China, Russia, and Iran. The exercise aims to enhance regional maritime security and strengthen military cooperation among the participating countries.

The drills are being conducted off the coast of Cape Town and in the False Bay area, and will continue until 16 January. Warships have arrived at Simon’s Town Naval Base, the principal base of the South African Navy.

According to South African defence sources, the exercise focuses on maritime transport security and maritime economic activities. An official statement said the objective is to deepen cooperation in support of peaceful maritime security initiatives, noting that the exercise includes naval forces from BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

China is leading the naval exercise, which is taking place between 9 and 16 January.

Iran has drawn particular attention through its participation with the forward operating base ship IRIS Makran, one of the most prominent vessels in the Iranian Navy involved in the exercise. The Makran, converted from an oil tanker, is Iran’s largest helicopter carrier and serves as a mobile naval base.

As the host nation, the South African Navy is participating in the exercise with a frigate and a submarine.

@E.Y.M