China, Russia, Iran kick off annual joint naval drills
China, Russia and Iran have kicked off their annual naval exercises in a bid to deepen their military coordination amid the changing global dynamics since US President Donald Trump took office earlier this year.
Chinese and Iranian state media reported that the drills by the three countries' navies began on Sunday around the Gulf of Oman.
The exercises, which will last through Thursday, feature a Chinese guided-missile destroyer and Russian corvettes, as well as more than 10 ships from Iran of various types, including destroyers.
The training focuses on strikes against maritime targets, anti-piracy measures, and joint search and rescue operations, among other things.
Officials say observers from South Africa, Pakistan, Oman and other countries are participating in the drills.
The Chinese navy says the exercises are aimed at deepening mutual trust and cooperation among the militaries of the participating countries.
Source: NHK World