Chinese and Russian Warships Begin Maritime Phase of Joint Sea-2025 Exercises Near Vladivostok

The drills include submarine rescue operations, joint anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defense, and maritime combat exercises.

MOSCOW – The Chinese and Russian naval flotilla participating in the Joint Sea-2025 exercises departed on Sunday morning for waters near Vladivostok, marking the official start of the maritime phase of the joint drills, according to China’s Ministry of Defense.

At approximately 5 a.m., three Chinese warships and three Russian warships departed sequentially from a military port, the ministry stated, citing a release from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Once at sea, the ships swiftly formed a mixed Chinese-Russian formation and proceeded toward the designated mission zone. They then established communication links and exchanged real-time data on meteorological conditions and the maritime and aerial environment.

Before setting sail, a joint command center comprising Chinese and Russian personnel conducted a map-based rehearsal in line with the exercise scenario. This preparation focused on operational coordination and command structure, refining both the drill procedures and emergency response plans.

Participants also engaged in technical exchanges on key subjects such as underwater warfare, submarine rescue operations, and joint defense tactics.

Over the next three days, the joint naval formation will carry out a series of drills, including submarine rescue, coordinated anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defense, and maritime combat operations.