China and Russia to Hold Joint Naval Exercise and Maritime Patrol

The navies of China and Russia will hold the Joint Sea-2026 exercise this month in the waters and airspace near the port city of Qingdao in Shandong Province, China. Following the exercise, some forces from both sides will conduct a joint maritime patrol in relevant areas of the Pacific Ocean, the Chinese Ministry of National Defence said in a statement on Sunday. As of Sunday, Russian vessels participating in the exercise had arrived at a military port in Qingdao, with the assembly of all participating forces complete, according to military sources. Russia deployed a guided-missile cruiser, a frigate, a submarine, and a rescue vessel for the exercise, while the Chinese participants mainly consist of forces from the Northern Theatre Command Navy, including guided-missile destroyers, guided-missile frigates, a comprehensive supply ship, a rescue vessel, and a submarine. Both sides will also deploy ship-based helicopters and marine units. Focusing on joint responses to maritime security threats, the exercise will be carried out in three phases: force assembly, port planning, and sea operations. The two sides will conduct joint reconnaissance, air and missile defence, and maritime strike operations, among other scenarios, at sea. Personnel from both sides will also hold professional exchanges and arrange visits to the respective vessels. The ministry stated that the exercise is part of the annual cooperation plan between the two militaries and aims to jointly respond to security challenges and maintain regional peace and stability.