China, Russia, Iran Launch Joint Naval Exercise in South Africa

BRICS Plus Military Cooperation

China, Russia, and Iran have initiated a week-long joint naval exercise off the coast of South Africa on January 10, 2026. The drills are being conducted under the auspices of BRICS Plus, an expanded geopolitical bloc that has grown beyond its original members (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to include six additional nations. The exercise is officially described as an operation to ensure maritime safety and protect economic activities.

Geopolitical Context

The timing of these naval drills coincides with rising tensions between the United States under President Donald Trump and several BRICS Plus countries. The expanded BRICS grouping now includes Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, further broadening its geopolitical footprint. While South Africa regularly conducts naval exercises with China and Russia, the current operation takes place against a backdrop of increased global geopolitical tensions.

Implications of Expanded BRICS+ Group

The BRICS Plus formation is viewed by its members as a counterbalance to Western economic dominance. The inclusion of new members has strengthened this bloc's position in global affairs. The naval exercise demonstrates the growing military cooperation among its member states, signaling a significant shift in global power dynamics.