Iran, Russia, and China to Conduct Joint Naval Drills in Gulf of Oman

Naval forces from Iran, Russia, and China will conduct joint military exercises, dubbed "Security Bond 2025," off the Iranian coast starting Tuesday, March 9, 2025. The drills aim to enhance regional security and will involve naval vessels from all three nations, practicing combat against maritime targets. Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Qatar, Iraq, UAE and Sri Lanka will attend as observers. The Chinese Ministry of Defense stated the exercises are intended to deepen military trust and practical cooperation among participating countries. The Chinese Navy will deploy the destroyer Baotou and the supply ship Gaoyouhu for the maneuvers, which will include joint search and rescue operations and damage control exercises.