China, Iran, Russia begin joint naval drill in Indian Ocean

China, Iran and Russia yesterday began joint naval drills in the Indian Ocean aimed at boosting marine security, Iranian state media reported.

Eleven Iranian vessels were joined by three Russian ships including a destroyer, and two Chinese vessels, state TV said.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard would also participate with smaller ships and helicopters, it added.

The report said the maneuvers would cover about 17,000km2 of the northern Indian Ocean, and include night fighting, rescue operations and firefighting drills.

It is the third joint naval drill between the countries since 2019.