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By Newz.Africa World Desk | Cape Town, South Africa | 20 January 2026 | China Russia conclude BRICS naval drills
China and Russia concluded BRICS naval drills. These took place after a week of coordinated maritime exercises off the South African coast. Pretoria framed the event as essential, yet it drew sharp global attention. The drills formed part of the “Will for Peace 2026” initiative involving multiple BRICS and BRICS+ members. South African officials described the exercises as a security necessity aimed at protecting shipping lanes and supporting maritime economic activity.
BRICS+ maritime cooperation grows
China and Russia conclude BRICS naval drills alongside South Africa, Iran, and the UAE. Brazil, Indonesia, and Ethiopia attended as observers. South African joint task force commander Captain Nndwakhulu Thomas Thamaha reaffirmed that the drills were more than routine exercises. He said they demonstrated the collective resolve of BRICS nations to strengthen maritime coordination in an increasingly complex environment.
Chinese and Iranian warships joined Russian vessels deployed to South African waters as part of the expanded BRICS+ operation. These included China’s Tangshan destroyer-class vessel and Russia’s Stoikiy warship. South Africa deployed a frigate to complete the formation.
Heightened geopolitical tensions shadow the drills
The timing of the drills intensified international scrutiny. The events took place just days after the United States seized a Venezuela-linked Russian oil tanker in the North Atlantic. This seizure was due to sanction violations. This incident deepened tensions between Washington and several BRICS+ members, including China and Russia. South African officials insisted the drills were planned far in advance and not a response to U.S. actions.
Global analysts noted that Washington closely monitored the exercises. Some described the week-long operation as symbolic. They highlighted that the BRICS framework may be expanding into security cooperation. However, it is not forming a formal military bloc.
Iran’s participation draws diplomatic attention
Iran’s role in the drills added a layer of geopolitical tension. Maritime security analysts pointed out that the involvement of the Islamic Republic heightened concerns in Western capitals. Critics argued that the BRICS+ exercise reflected shifting alliances in global politics. South African defence officials dismissed claims that the drills were a provocation. They reiterated that the drills posed a threat to no one.
South Africa pushes back against criticism
Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa urged critics not to frame the drills through the lens of U.S. foreign policy. He stressed that the exercises focused on cooperation and securing sea routes vital to the global south. Officials also highlighted that the drills had originally been scheduled for November but were postponed due to the G20 Summit.
South African authorities maintain that the exercises are essential for maritime safety. This is crucial at a time when global trade routes face mounting instability.
Original Reporting
Newz.Africa reviewed all publicly available statements from South African defence officials, international coverage of the drills, and BRICS+ country announcements. All information cited has been cross-referenced with verified sources listed below:
Primary Artefact
Satellite and photographic evidence from the Simon’s Town naval base is referenced in media reports.
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