Russia, China, and Iran conduct naval drills off South Africa

January 09, 2026 / 4:19 PM

The Russian corvette Stoikiy ship is towed into Simon's Town harbour, near Cape Town

Sharjah 24 – AFP: A Russian warship has arrived off South Africa’s main naval base to take part in a Chinese-led naval exercise alongside vessels from China and Iran. The drills are set to begin with an opening ceremony and continue through the week.

Exercise “Will for Peace 2026” under way

The military manoeuvres — named Will for Peace 2026 and involving BRICS and BRICS Plus countries — will run from January 9 to January 16 in waters near Cape Town and Simon’s Town. The exercise focuses on joint maritime safety operations, interoperability drills and protecting shipping routes.

Broader participation expected

In addition to China, Russia and Iran, other nations from the expanded BRICS grouping are participating or observing, with warships from the United Arab Emirates also anticipated. Indonesia, Ethiopia and Brazil are expected to send observers.

Potential diplomatic fallout with the US

The drills come amid strained relations between Pretoria and Washington, with the US administration critical of the exercise’s timing and participating states. South African officials maintain the exercise was planned well in advance and emphasise its aim is maritime cooperation rather than political alignment.

Goal of the drills

South African defence statements describe the exercise’s theme as “joint actions to ensure the safety of shipping and maritime economic activities,” intended to deepen cooperation among participating navies and enhance maritime security.