Iran, Russia and China have deployed naval ships for joint exercises in the Gulf of Oman and waters near the Strait of Hormuz — a strategically critical waterway for global oil shipments. The drills are described as coordinated maritime exercises involving vessels from all three countries. Iranian, Russian and (in some reports) Chinese naval units are conducting manoeuvres that include formation sailing and rehearsals such as simulated operations at sea.
Why it’s significant
The drills occur as tensions are rising with the United States, which has increased its military presence in the region. The Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman are critical for global maritime traffic — especially energy exports — so activity there tends to draw international attention.
Context
Such joint exercises have happened before: “Maritime Security Belt” drills involving these three countries have been conducted in previous years to demonstrate cooperation and maritime capabilities. Current drills are happening alongside other regional military exercises, such as separate Iranian naval drills in the Strait of Hormuz.
In news coverage, these drills are often framed both as training and a political signal of cooperation among Tehran, Moscow, and Beijing amid broader geopolitical competition.
