Chinese and Russian naval forces have begun a joint exercise at a southern Chinese military port, China's Ministry of National Defense announced July 12. The "Maritime Joint-2024" exercise is taking place off Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, on the South China Sea. Its stated objectives include demonstrating the the two nations' ability to address maritime security threats, maintain regional stability, and deepen their strategic partnership.

China's state broadcaster CCTV reported that the exercises will unfold in multiple phases. Initially, the two sides will engage in desktop simulations. Subsequently, Chinese and Russian naval fleets will conduct joint exercises in the sea and airspace near Zhanjiang. These operations will encompass joint reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-missile operations, and air defense maneuvers. 

This naval cooperation unfolds against a backdrop of mounting tensions between China and NATO allies. At their July 9-11 Washington summit, NATO members designated China as a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war in Ukraine, citing the two nations' "no-holds-barred partnership" and China's support for the Russian defense industry. The alliance also voiced concerns about Beijing's nuclear arsenal and space capabilities. The final communiqué, endorsed by all 32 NATO members, clearly signals that China is becoming a focal point for the military alliance:

The People's Republic of China's (PRC) stated ambitions and coercive policies continue to challenge our interests, security and values. The deepening strategic partnership between Russia and the PRC and their mutually reinforcing attempts to undercut and reshape the rules-based international order, are a cause for profound concern. We are confronted by hybrid, cyber, space, and other threats and malicious activities from state and non-state actors.

In response, China accused NATO of seeking security at the expense of others and cautioned against introducing "chaos" to Asia, while reiterating its neutrality on the Ukraine conflict.

China's Defense Ministry recently disclosed that Chinese and Russian naval vessels had completed their fourth joint maritime patrol in the western and northern Pacific Ocean.

From Jurist, July 14. Used with permission.

Note: China-Russia joint exercises have become more frequent in recent years.