BRICS naval drills begin off South Africa
Chinese, Russian and Iranian warships join exercises near Simon’s Town despite protests
Naval vessels from China, Russia and Iran have arrived off South Africa’s coast to take part in "Will for Peace 2026," a China-led series of joint drills framed as BRICS Plus maritime cooperation near Simon’s Town naval base. South African authorities say the exercises aim to strengthen interoperability, share best practices, protect shipping routes and bolster maritime economic security across Southern Hemisphere waters. The week-long program will include maritime security operations, search-and-rescue training and coordinated maneuvers; South Africa’s military said all BRICS Plus members, including recent entrants such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, were invited to participate, with some countries attending as observers.
Officials from participating states described the exercises as routine, defensive and intended to deepen mutual trust and multilateral engagement. China emphasized cooperation and confidence-building, Russia presented the drills as part of expanding military ties, and Iran framed its presence as supporting collective maritime security.
The deployment has drawn domestic and international criticism. Protesters gathered outside Simon’s Town carrying placards and a symbolic coffin to denounce the presence of Russian naval forces while the war in Ukraine continues; members of the Ukrainian community in South Africa said it was painful to see Russian ships training in local waters. Opposition politicians and some analysts have questioned Pretoria’s claim of non-alignment, warning that hosting Russian and Iranian vessels may strain relations with Western partners and complicate diplomatic standing.
Observers note the exercises carry significant geopolitical symbolism as emerging powers coordinate beyond traditional Western security frameworks. The drills come amid heightened tensions between several participating countries and Western governments, who have previously expressed concern over joint military activity involving Russia and Iran. South African officials and military leaders nevertheless defended the exercises as long-planned and focused on regional maritime stability rather than confrontation, while analysts said the operation will be watched closely for both its operational outcomes and broader signaling about shifting global alliances.
