On November 29, 2024, the armed forces of China and Russia conducted their ninth joint strategic air patrol over the Sea of Japan, as reported by the Chinese Ministry of Defense. This operation is part of an annual cooperation plan between the two militaries, although further details were not disclosed.
This air patrol follows a series of naval maneuvers conducted by Beijing and Moscow in September, which analysts suggest indicate a deepening military cooperation that has escalated in recent years. In July, the two nations also carried out a joint air patrol using strategic bombers near Alaska in the North Pacific and Arctic regions.
The current exercises are described as part of a series of strategic initiatives that emphasize the strengthening of defense relations between China and Russia, coinciding with increasing tensions with Western nations. These developments occur amid accusations from the West that China is providing military support to Russia's campaign in Ukraine, claims that Beijing has consistently denied.
Furthermore, in March 2023, China and Russia agreed to enhance their military cooperation to bolster mutual trust between their armed forces, following a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Kremlin.
Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, China has maintained an ambiguous stance, advocating for respect for the territorial integrity of all nations, including Ukraine, while also addressing the legitimate concerns of all countries, a reference to Russia with which it has strengthened ties in recent years.