Iran To Stage Naval Drill With 7 Other Countries

The main phase of a joint naval war game among Iran and seven other nations will kick off in the northern regions of the Indian Ocean on March 12. 

The three main participants in the naval exercise, codenamed Maritime Security Belt 2024, will be Iran, Russia and China.

The forthcoming war game will also include naval forces from Oman, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and South Africa.

The purpose of the drill, to be held in the northern parts of the Indian Ocean, is to strengthen regional security, promote collective cooperation, display the capabilities to provide concerted support for world peace and maritime security, and create a sea-based community with a common fate.

The participants in the drill will also practice tactics to ensure international maritime trade security, fight against piracy and maritime terrorism, take humanitarian measures, exchange information on naval rescue and relief operations, and share operational and tactical experiences.

Tuesday’s drill will mark the fifth joint exercise among Iran, Russia and China in recent years.