China and Russia Strengthen Joint Maritime Stability in the Yellow Sea

China and Russia have officially commenced their annual joint naval exercise, titled Maritime Interaction-2026, as part of efforts to strengthen capabilities in addressing security challenges while maintaining regional peace and stability. The Russian Defence Ministry stated on Monday that the exercise is part of the annual cooperation plan between the armed forces of both countries. The opening ceremony was held at a Chinese naval base in Qingdao and was attended by Russian Navy commanders, People’s Liberation Army Navy commanders, and officers from the joint command headquarters. The exercise is led by Russian Rear Admiral Sergei Sinko and Chinese Rear Admiral Qiu Wencheng. In his remarks, Sinko emphasised that the annual exercise is defensive in nature and is not directed against any country. Following the opening ceremony, officers from the joint command headquarters and participating ship commanders immediately discussed tactical operations at sea and the planned exercise procedures. Chinese state media also reported the launch of the drills, referring to them as ‘Joint Sea-2026’ at a military port in Qingdao, eastern Shandong Province. The official military social media account China Bugle stated that the eight-day exercise is divided into three phases: force assembly, port planning, and sea operations. On the first day, both navies conducted command coordination and tactical exercises, while the joint command headquarters held in-depth discussions on the main exercise materials to be executed at sea. In the subsequent phase, participating warships will proceed to waters around Qingdao to conduct joint reconnaissance, air and missile defence, and weapon systems drills. Russia has deployed the missile cruiser Varyag, the frigate Surovy, the large submarine Ufa, and the rescue vessel Igor Belousov. China has contributed the destroyers Kaifeng and Anshan, the frigate Wuhu, the supply ship Kekexilihu, the submarine rescue vessel Yangchenghu, and one submarine. The annual exercise is scheduled to run until 13 July in the Yellow Sea area.