ISLAMABAD: Iran, China, and Russia are gearing up for a collaborative naval exercise in the northern Indian Ocean, scheduled to commence on Tuesday (March 12).
Dubbed as the Maritime Security Belt, this exercise will witness the participation of surface and aerial units from the Iranian Navy, alongside naval contingents from China and Russia.
Additionally, representatives from Oman, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and South Africa will be present.
The primary objective of this maritime drill is to enhance regional security and promote multilateral cooperation among the participating nations, thereby demonstrating their commitment to global peace.
Key objectives include fortifying the security of international maritime trade, combating piracy and maritime terrorism, facilitating humanitarian efforts, exchanging crucial information on maritime rescue operations, and sharing operational and tactical expertise.
Through this joint endeavor, Iran, China, and Russia aim to showcase their collective goodwill and capabilities in safeguarding maritime interests, highlighting the significance of collaborative efforts in upholding stability and security in the region.
Commander Shahram Irani of the Iranian Navy had officially announced in late February the participation of formidable naval forces in the joint exercise.
He provided insights into the strategic maritime efforts, revealing that the mission to safeguard Iran’s shipping lines in international waters began in 2009 under the direct command of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution.
Emphasizing the steadfast commitment of the Army’s strategic naval force, Irani highlighted their ongoing role in ensuring the security of the nation’s economic hub in both the Gulf of Aden and the northern Indian Ocean. He also noted the expansion of security missions over the past four years, extending from the Red Sea to the Suez Canal.
Irani disclosed that security measures for Iran’s shipping lines involve three naval groups stationed at critical maritime points.
Furthermore, he underscored the Navy’s readiness to provide support to other countries upon request in these vital areas.
The Iranian Navy conducts routine exercises throughout the year, with significant advancements made by Iranian military experts and technicians in developing a wide array of military equipment, ensuring self-sufficiency in the military industry.
In early February, Admiral Irani reiterated the exercise’s goal of preserving the country’s economic interests and reservoirs, contributing to regional security and shared interests.
He emphasized the Navy’s role in protecting Iranian ships at sea and assisting countries in need of support to ensure security and safety. Plans are underway, with the support of the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces, to expand the Navy fleet by adding several ships by the year’s end.
Iran, China, and Russia have conducted numerous joint military drills in recent years, aimed at enhancing the security of international maritime trade, countering piracy and maritime terrorism, exchanging information on naval rescue and relief operations, and sharing operational and tactical experiences.
