Russia, China, and Iran deployed naval ships for joint military drills in the Strait of Hormuz. The exercises, named Maritime Security Belt 2026, took place in mid-February 2026. Participants included surface combatants, logistical vessels, and naval aviation elements from the three countries.
The drills focused on anti-piracy operations, search and rescue missions, communication exercises, and simulated escorts for commercial shipping. Iran hosted the event in waters connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Official Statements
Nikolay Patrushev, Russian presidential aide, highlighted the relevance of the maneuvers. He stated, “The Maritime Security Belt 2026 exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, where Russia, China, and Iran sent their ships, proved to be relevant.”
Additionally, Patrushev noted that the sea had become a staging ground for military aggression. He said, “The facts indicate that the sea is once again becoming a staging ground for military aggression.”
Furthermore he emphasized efforts to build a multipolar world order on the oceans. Patrushev declared, “Russia and its partners are working towards a multipolar world order in the oceans.”
Strategic Significance
The Strait of Hormuz served as a critical location for the exercises. This waterway handled 17 to 20 million barrels of oil daily, accounting for nearly one fifth of global consumption.
The drills occurred amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States. The U.S. expanded its military presence in the Gulf, including carrier strike groups, during ongoing nuclear talks.
However the exercises demonstrated growing cooperation among Russia, China, and Iran. They built on similar drills initiated in 2019 and held seven times since then.
The maneuvers aimed to protect vulnerable trade routes. Participants practiced coordination to safeguard maritime economic activities in the region.
