BRICS Naval Exercise ‘Vil For Peace 2026’ in South Africa Involves China, Russia, and Iran Warships Amid U.S. Tensions

Source: News18 | Original Published At: 2026-01-09 16:39:06 UTC

Key Points

• BRICS member states China, Russia, and Iran are conducting a joint naval exercise ('Vil For Peace 2026') near Cape Town, South Africa, emphasizing maritime security and anti-piracy training.
• The exercise occurs amid U.S. accusations that BRICS is 'anti-American' and follows U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, which China and Russia oppose.
• China leads the drill, showcasing BRICS' military coordination, while South Africa faces U.S. criticism for hosting sanctioned nations.
• Eleven BRICS nations are expected to participate, with UAE, Indonesia, and Brazil attending as observers, though some members' involvement remains unclear.