From August 1-5, 2025, Russia and China held naval exercises, called "Maritime Interaction-2025," in the Sea of Japan showcasing a growing military coordination and a shared intent to counterbalance U.S. influence in the region.
It is worth noting that, on July 21, 2025, Russia and Iran launched a three-day annual naval exercise codenamed CASAREX 2025 in the Caspian Sea. The three-day drill was hosted by Iran's Northern Fleet and the Fourth Naval District of Imam Reza.[1]
Maritime Interaction-2025 (Source: Russian Ministry of Defence)
Following is a translation of a report on the Russian-Chinese naval drills:[2]
This Drill Is "The Most Significant Bilateral Military Event" Between Russia And China In 2025
"From August 1 to 5, Russia and China [conducted] large-scale naval exercises 'Maritime Interaction-2025' in the waters near Vladivostok in eastern Russia. This is one of the most significant bilateral military events between the two countries this year, which is taking place against the backdrop of increasingly close bilateral relations in the defense sector and continuing tensions between the countries [of the region].
"According to the data of China's Ministry of National Defense, warships, diesel-electric submarines and naval aircraft from both sides took part in the exercises. The Chinese Navy deployed the Type 052 destroyer 'Shaoxing' to lead the grouping, while Russia deployed the large anti-submarine ship 'Admiral Tributs' as the leading vessel. The exercises included submarine and air defense, search and rescue operations and live-fire drills.
"Despite the fact that both Moscow and Beijing have stated that the exercises are part of their annual cooperation plan and are not directed against any particular country, analysts note that they carry many strategic messages. In the context of the growing military presence of the U.S. and its allies in the Asia-Pacific region, the further strengthening of defense cooperation between Russia and China is perceived as a move aimed at demonstrating a united stance and strengthening influence in a region, which is sensitive to geopolitics.
"According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Russia and China have conducted more than 100 joint exercises over the past 20 years, wherein since 2018 their number increased sharply. Furthermore, the two countries also regularly conduct joint naval and air patrols in areas near Japan, the Korean Peninsula, and the East China Sea, which are areas with a U.S. military presence."
"No Coincidence That China And Russia Chose This Particular Moment To Coordinate Their Actions"
"Immediately following the exercise, the two countries also planned to continue their sixth joint naval patrol, demonstrating an increased coordination [of the fleets]. Meanwhile, the exercise in waters adjacent to Japan also attracted attention from the regional public, especially in the context of the ongoing dispute between Russia and Japan over sovereignty over the South Kuril Islands.
"Although Russia and China have not yet established a formal military alliance, they are gradually increasing their coordination capabilities, especially in joint combat situations. Observers argue that both sides pursue a long-term goal: to create a new balance of power at sea, where the United States and its allies will not have an advantage.
"In addition to technical and training elements, the 'Maritime Interaction-2025' exercises clearly reflect the trend of using the navy as the main tool in the struggle for influence. With its ability to be deployed at long distances, [to asset] control over maritime space and to coordinate armed forces, the navy is becoming the centerpiece of modern defense and deterrence strategies.
"It's no coincidence that China and Russia chose this particular moment to coordinate their actions. Against the backdrop of growing U.S. military support for Ukraine and the further development of security alliances in Asia, the two countries' high-intensity exercises are a way to reassert their roles and interests in the Pacific region, which is becoming a new center of global competition."
