New Delhi : The joint naval exercise between Russia and China has officially commenced, marking the beginning of a new phase of military cooperation between the two countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
The drill, titled “Maritime Interaction-2026”, began with the arrival of Russia’s Pacific Fleet in the Chinese port city of Qingdao. The exercise will be conducted in the Yellow Sea and is scheduled to continue until July 13.
According to official information, the large-scale naval operation brings together surface warships, submarines, and rescue vessels from both countries, reflecting a comprehensive maritime coordination effort. The participating forces are expected to engage in a series of complex training scenarios aimed at improving interoperability and joint operational readiness.
The exercise will cover multiple dimensions of naval warfare and maritime security operations, including search and rescue missions at sea, anti-submarine warfare drills, coordinated air defense exercises, and joint live-fire artillery training. These components are designed to enhance tactical coordination between the two navies in both defensive and combat situations.
Military analysts note that such exercises also serve to strengthen strategic communication channels and operational familiarity between the Russian and Chinese naval forces, particularly in increasingly contested maritime environments.
The “Maritime Interaction-2026” exercise underscores the continuing expansion of defense cooperation between the two countries, while also demonstrating their focus on maintaining coordinated naval preparedness in key regional waters.