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

Warships from China, Russia, and Iran are set to hold a series of naval exercises in a strategically important Middle Eastern waterway, further emphasizing their growing military cooperation. The drills, which will take place starting March 10, are designed to deepen military trust and enhance pragmatic cooperation between the three nations, according to reports from state-run media outlets. The exercises, dubbed Security Belt 2025, will be conducted near the Iranian port of Chabahar, located along the Gulf of Oman.

This joint naval operation is part of an annual series of exercises between China, Russia, and Iran, which are all increasingly aligned due to their respective tensions with the United States. These drills highlight the growing collaboration among the three powers, with China and Russia notably enhancing their naval exercises in recent years, including joint drills in locations as far-flung as the Pacific Ocean and off the coast of South Africa.

Russia and Iran also recently signed an agreement to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade and defense sectors, underscoring the broadening strategic partnership between the two nations.

The Security Belt 2025 exercise will include a range of complex drills, including simulated attacks on maritime targets, joint search and rescue operations, and simulated spot checks and arrests. China will contribute its advanced Type 052D guided-missile destroyer, a cutting-edge warship central to Beijing's naval modernization efforts. Russia and Iran have yet to confirm the specific vessels that will participate from their fleets.

This exercise follows a series of joint drills held in March 2024, where more than 10 Iranian vessels, along with Russia's Pacific fleet and China's 45th naval escort task, conducted live-fire drills focusing on anti-piracy operations.

China's Naval Power Growth

These drills come amid China's growing presence at sea. China now boasts the world's largest maritime fighting force, operating 234 warships—surpassing the U.S. Navy, which maintains 219. Although the U.S. Navy holds a technological edge, China has been heavily investing in its naval capabilities, narrowing the gap.

In addition to these drills, China has made headlines for conducting live-fire exercises in February 2025 in the Tasman Sea, close to Australia. The drills sparked tensions with Australia and New Zealand, leading to safety concerns and adjustments to flight routes.

Regional Tensions and Implications

These military activities come in the context of heightened regional tensions, particularly regarding Taiwan. The Chinese military has been vocal in its stance toward Taiwan, with statements issued on March 9 warning of tightening a "noose" around the island should it move toward formal independence—a prospect that Beijing views as a threat to its territorial claims.

As the U.S. remains Taiwan's primary military backer, these developments signal a shift in the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region, with China, Russia, and Iran aligning more closely in opposition to U.S. influence.