. 27/09/2024 1:49 PM
From September 10 to 16, 2024, Russia and China conducted one of the largest naval exercises in recent history, dubbed “Ocean-24,” in the Sea of Japan. This joint military endeavor marks a significant milestone in the growing collaboration between these two nations, reflecting not only their mutual strategic interests but also the shifting dynamics of global power.
“Ocean-24” stands out as the most extensive naval exercise in the last three decades, showcasing a formidable display of military might. Key statistics from the drills include:
Over 400 warships, encompassing submarines and various support vessels.
More than 120 aircraft, including fighter jets, reconnaissance planes, and helicopters.
Approximately 90,000 military personnel, demonstrating a significant commitment from both nations.
While the primary operations took place in the Sea of Japan, the exercises also spanned several other critical maritime regions, including the Pacific, Arctic, Mediterranean, Caspian, and Baltic Seas. This expansive operational footprint underscores the strategic ambition behind “Ocean-24.”
China’s active participation in “Ocean-24” serves as a testament to the increasingly close military partnership between Russia and China. The collaborative nature of these exercises highlights their ability to coordinate complex military operations effectively. This partnership is further bolstered by previous joint initiatives, including joint naval patrols and military drills, which have steadily grown in frequency and intensity.
According to Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, the drills aimed to achieve several critical objectives:
Defending Against Large-Scale Sea Attacks: The exercises focused on enhancing capabilities to counter potential large-scale assaults on naval assets.
Countering Unmanned Systems: The drills included strategies to deal with threats posed by unmanned drone ships and aerial systems, reflecting the modern challenges of contemporary warfare.
Protecting Naval Bases: Ensuring the security of naval bases and critical installations was a key focus, given their importance in sustaining military operations.
Conducting Amphibious Operations: The ability to conduct landings from sea to land was tested, showcasing readiness for diverse operational scenarios.
Safeguarding Maritime Transport: The protection of transport ships and ensuring safe passage across key maritime routes was emphasized, highlighting the importance of securing trade and logistical lines.
The joint military exercise carries significant implications for global security dynamics. By showcasing their combined military strength, Russia and China send a powerful message to Western nations regarding their ability to work collaboratively on large-scale operations across multiple seas.
The strengthened Russia-China military alliance challenges existing geopolitical narratives, particularly in the context of rising tensions between these nations and Western powers. As both countries navigate a complex international landscape, their partnership could potentially reshape global alliances and security strategies.
Deteriorating U.S. Influence: The growing cooperation between Russia and China may signify a decline in U.S. influence in the Asia-Pacific region, prompting a reevaluation of military and diplomatic strategies by Western nations.
Regional Stability Concerns: The scale of the exercises raises concerns about regional stability, particularly among nations in proximity to the Sea of Japan and the Pacific, which may feel threatened by the enhanced military capabilities of Russia and China.
Future Military Collaborations: The success of “Ocean-24” may pave the way for more frequent and larger joint military exercises, solidifying the strategic partnership between Russia and China and presenting new challenges for global security.
