By Haifa Chairunisa
Three major military powers, Iran, Russia, and China, have officially launched joint naval exercises in South African waters, a move widely viewed as adding to geopolitical sensitivities as the United States continues operations in international seas. The drills, titled “Will for Peace 2026,” are expected to draw close attention from Washington and its allies.
Warships from the three countries arrived in Valsbaai on Thursday, January 8, 2026, before anchoring at Simon’s Town, South Africa’s largest naval base. The exercise is scheduled to run until January 16 and is being led by China.
Officials said the drills aim to strengthen military cooperation among the participating nations and enhance their capacity to protect major global maritime trade routes. Each country has deployed key naval assets for the exercise.
China has sent the guided missile destroyer Tangshan along with the replenishment ship Taihu. Russia is participating with a Steregushchiy class corvette equipped with anti submarine helicopters, supported by the Altai class tanker Yelnya. Iran has contributed the forward base ship Iris Makran, the expeditionary base ship Shahid Mahdavi, and the Bayandor class corvette Naqdi.
The BRICS Plus related naval exercise has also drawn interest from other countries. Media reports suggest Indonesia and Ethiopia may take part as observers, although their roles are expected to be limited.
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