China and Russia Strengthen Naval Cooperation with Live-Fire Drills in South China Sea

China and Russia conducted live-fire naval exercises in the South China Sea, showcasing their strengthened military and trade ties amid U.S. sanctions. The exercises involved joint air defense and anti-submarine drills and highlighted the deepening cooperation between the two nations, aiming at enhancing maritime security capabilities.

China and Russia carried out live-fire naval exercises in the South China Sea this week, according to reports from Russian and Chinese state media. The countries have enhanced their military and trade relations recently, following U.S. sanctions. Each nation deployed at least three vessels for the three-day exercises, The Global Times reported, citing China's People's Liberation Army Navy.

The Russian-Chinese naval exercise 'Maritime Cooperation - 2024' commenced in Zhanjiang port, noted the Russian defense ministry on Telegram. The Russian Pacific Fleet and PLA Navy conducted joint air defense and anti-submarine drills, with PLA naval aviation participation, the ministry added.

In addition, Russia's RIA news agency reported artillery firing as part of the drills, which followed an earlier joint naval patrol in the North Pacific. The exercises are linked to broader efforts to bolster tactical interoperability and combat maritime security threats, according to Wang Guangzheng of the PLA Navy's Southern Theatre.