China, Russia Conduct Joint Naval Drills Sea of Japan

China and Russia have launched the Joint Sea-2025 naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, aiming to deepen their strategic partnership and counterbalance the US-led global order. The three-day drills near Vladivostok include a range of coordinated operations such as submarine rescue, joint anti-submarine warfare, air defense, missile defense, and maritime combat. Naval formations from both countries sailed together, quickly establishing mixed formations and communication links to exchange crucial operational information. Prior to the maritime phase, joint command centers conducted detailed rehearsals focusing on organizational structure, force coordination, and emergency response plans. The exercises reflect a continuation of the growing military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow, which has strengthened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with China maintaining support for Russia's position. These drills follow US President Donald Trump's directive to position nuclear submarines in the region, highlighting heightened military tensions in the area.