The navies of China and Russia embarked on a significant joint warship patrol in the western and northern Pacific Ocean in July. This operation, a precursor to their annual naval drill, showcased the growing military cooperation between the two nations and their strategic interests in the region.
Background and Objectives
The joint patrol, part of the broader “Joint Sea-2024” exercise, aimed to enhance naval cooperation, maintain regional stability, and protect maritime economic interests. The patrol involved a fleet of warships from both countries, including China’s destroyer Yinchuan, frigate Hengshui, and replenishment ship Weishanhu, alongside Russia’s corvette Sovershenny.
Key Activities: ‘Search and Arrest’ Operations
One of the notable activities during this patrol was the practice of ‘search and arrest’ operations. These exercises simulated scenarios where the combined naval forces would intercept and inspect suspicious vessels. This practice is crucial for enhancing the operational readiness of both navies in dealing with potential maritime threats, such as piracy, smuggling, and unauthorized incursions.
The ‘search and arrest’ drills involved coordinated efforts between shipborne helicopters, special operation units, and speedboats from both navies. These units worked together to simulate the identification, boarding, and inspection of a target vessel, ensuring seamless communication and tactical coordination.
Strategic Implications
The joint patrol and subsequent drills underscore the strategic partnership between China and Russia. By conducting these operations in the Pacific, both nations signal their intent to assert their presence and influence in a region that is increasingly becoming a focal point of geopolitical tensions.
For China, these exercises are part of its broader strategy to project naval power and secure its maritime interests, particularly in the South China Sea. For Russia, the patrols demonstrate its commitment to maintaining a robust naval presence in the Asia-Pacific region, countering the influence of other major powers. The Chinese-Russian joint warship patrol with its focus on ‘search and arrest’ operations, highlights the deepening military cooperation between the two countries.
These exercises not only enhance the operational capabilities of their navies but also serve as a strategic message to the international community about their shared interests and growing influence in the Pacific region. This joint effort reflects the evolving dynamics of global naval power and the importance of strategic partnerships in maintaining regional stability and security.
Chinese-Russian Relations
After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, China and Russia established diplomatic relations.The history of China and Russia is complex, marked by both cooperation and strategic rivalry. However, the relationship between the two countries has improved significantly in the twenty-first century. They have resolved their border dispute, increased security cooperation through joint military drills and arms deals, and strengthened their economic ties. Additionally, they coordinate to challenge the U.S.-led world order within international institutions.
The two countries have a shared border established in 1991. In 2001, they signed a treaty, The Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation which was renewed in 2021 for an additional five years. Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on their special relationship between the two nations before a state visit to Moscow by Chinese leader Xi Jinping in 2013.
They have close military, economic, and political ties and often support each other on global issues. Russia and China officially stated that they are “Not allies, but better than allies”. After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, their relationship has strengthened, with Russia increasingly dependent on China due to international sanctions. As a result, Russia has focused on increasing its coal exports to China and other Asian countries.
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