TEHRAN Iran has reaffirmed its pivotal role in regional security by leading the seventh iteration of the Maritime Security Belt-2025 joint naval exercises alongside China and Russia, held March 1013 near the strategic port of Chabahar.The drills, marked by advanced tactical operations and aerial maneuvers, underscored Tehrans commitment to safeguarding vital maritime routes while strengthening alliances with global powers in the face of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The exercises featured synchronized day and night aerial target shooting, tactical formations, mock rescue missions, and a grand naval parade, demonstrating heightened interoperability among the three nations.Rear Admiral Mostafa Tajeddini, deputy operations commander of Irans Navy, hailed the drills as a testament to Irans technical sophistication and leadership.The execution of these operations demands precise coordination and step-by-step orders, he stated, emphasizing the seamless integration of the Iranian Navy (part of Artesh) and Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy with Chinese and Russian fleets.Notably, this years drills expanded operational scope, deploying helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft in deeper watersa strategic leap from prior iterations.Tajeddini underscored the significance of such advancements, describing them as critical to countering external threats and ensuring regional stability.Rear Admiral Tajeddini also reiterated Irans uncompromising stance: We will not tolerate any threats or incursions into the nations maritime borders.Unity at sea today ensures stability onshore tomorrow, he added.Since their inception in 2019, the Maritime Security Belt drills have evolved in scale and complexity, mirroring Irans geopolitical ambitions.The 2025 edition coincides with heightened tensions in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea, where Western-led coalitions have increased patrols.By contrast, Irans collaboration with Beijing and Moscow offers an alternative security framework, prioritizing regional sovereignty over external intervention.
Chabahar: a geopolitical linchpinThe choice of Chabahar as the drills focal point highlights its unparalleled strategic value.
Situated on the Gulf of Oman, Irans sole oceanic port bypasses the congested Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil transits.Chabahars direct access to the Indian Ocean positions it as a gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a 7,200-km trade artery linking India to Central Asia and Europe via Iran.
Historically, U.S.
sanctions somewhat complicated Chabahars development, yet partnerships with Eastern allies have helped improve its outlook.Indias initial investments in the ports infrastructure, aimed at accessing Afghanistan and Central Asia, have been complemented by Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), weaving Chabahar into broader Eurasian connectivity projects.The port now serves as a military and economic nexus, enabling Iran to project influence while mitigating reliance on Western-dominated trade routes.
Counter to unilateralismThe 2025 drills signal a deepening alignment among Iran, China, and Russia, reflecting shared opposition to unilateralism.Analysts note that the exercises, occurring near the Strait of Hormuz and Chabahar, symbolize a collective resolve to secure energy corridors and trade lanes critical to the Global South.Some experts view these exercises as more than just defensive actions; they are seen as opportunities to create a unified vision for maritime security.This partnership also counters Western isolation efforts.
By anchoring military cooperation in the Indian Ocean,Furthermore, the inclusion of aerial units and night operationsa first in the tripartite drillssignals Irans growing confidence in asymmetric warfare capabilities, crucial in deterring adversarial naval presence.