China, Russia, and Iran Launch BRICS Plus Naval Exercises in South African Waters

Source: The Straits Times | Original Published At: 2026-01-10 08:41:55 UTC

Key Points

• China, Russia, and Iran began joint naval exercises in South African waters under the BRICS Plus framework.
• BRICS Plus expands the original bloc (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) to include Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and UAE.
• Brazil, Egypt, and Ethiopia participated as observers in the 'WILL FOR PEACE 2026' drills focused on maritime safety and interoperability.
• Exercises occur amid U.S. tensions with several BRICS Plus countries, though South Africa denies political motives, emphasizing capability-building.
• South African military rejects domestic criticism that the drills contradict neutrality or align with 'rogue states.'