Ocean 2024 strategic command-and-staff exercise

Russia and China

Russia: The Supreme Commander-in-Chief took part via videoconference in the launch of the active phase of the Ocean 2024 strategic command-and-staff exercise

The exercise is taking place on September 10–16 in the waters of the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean, Caspian, and Baltic seas.

It involves over 400 warships, submarines, and auxiliary fleet support vessels, about 120 naval aviation airplanes and helicopters, and over 90,000 troops. Ships and aircraft of the People’s Liberation Army of China are also taking part in this process-oriented exercise.

The purpose of the exercise is to carry out a detailed review of the key elements dealing with the combat readiness of the Navy and Aerospace Forces command and control system and units and determine whether they can operate in a cohesive manner.

The exercise will include the combined use of precision weapons as well as other modern and advanced weaponry, taking into account, among other things, the experience gained during the special military operation. We are paying special attention to strengthening cooperation with our friendly countries. This is instrumental today amid rising geopolitical tension around the world.

At the same time, China announced its participation. China has announced joint naval and air drills with Russia. The exercises underline the growing closeness of the two giant powers.