Russian, Chinese Warships Conduct Joint Patrol Mission in Pacific Ocean
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Five Russian and four Chinese warships have initiated a joint patrol mission in the Pacific Ocean, as announced by Moscow.
This marks the third such operation carried out by the navies of both countries, showcasing their intensified military cooperation in recent years, according to RT.
The vessels departed from the port of Vladivostok in Russia's Far East, following an agreed route, according to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry.
The mission aims to strengthen naval cooperation between Russia and China, maintain peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, monitor the sea area, and protect the maritime economic activity facilities of both countries.
During the patrol, Russian and Chinese sailors will focus on perfecting various types of joint actions, including organizing defensive measures, replenishing water and fuel on the move, and conducting anti-submarine activities.
Russian and Chinese helicopters will participate in missions that involve landing on vessels belonging to the other country.
The ships will also engage with aviation from the Russian Pacific Fleet and China's People's Liberation Army.
The joint drill was confirmed by the Chinese Defense Ministry on Wednesday, which emphasized that it "doesn't target any third party and has nothing to do with the current international and regional situation."
Earlier in July, the navies of both countries participated in the 'Northern/Interaction-2023' wargames in the Sea of Japan, conducting 20 combat exercises, including joint artillery firing at seaborne, coastal, and air targets.
The economic and military ties between Moscow and Beijing have intensified since Russia's operation in Ukraine began in February 2022. According to the US National Defense University, the two countries conducted six joint drills last year, a number unprecedented in the past two decades.
Nikolay Evmenov, the head of the Russian Navy, emphasized the significance of boosting military cooperation with Beijing during his visit to China in early June. Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu expressed confidence in the regular organization of joint exercises and strengthened communication between the two countries at all levels.
