Russian corvette and Chinese destroyer conduct joint exercises in Gulf of Finland.

According to information published by Tass on July 30, 2024, the Russian corvette Soobrazitelny and the Chinese destroyer Jiaozuo recently conducted joint naval exercises in the Gulf of Finland.
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The Chinese PLA Navy's Type 052D destroyer Jiaozuo. (Picture source: Tass)

This exercise, known as "Passex," took place at the naval training range of the Baltic Fleet in the Leningrad Naval Base and involved complex tactical operations.

The drills included detecting and neutralizing simulated minefields using electronic equipment, followed by artillery fire to destroy these threats. The joint exercise also covered search and rescue operations.

The participation of "Jiaozuo" in these exercises aligns with China's broader strategy of enhancing its naval capabilities and strengthening ties with Russia. The Chinese destroyer had previously arrived in St. Petersburg to join the Russian Navy Day celebrations.

Russia-China relation

The military cooperation between Russia and China has deepened significantly in recent years, driven by their shared strategic interests and mutual perception of the United States as a primary security challenge. This relationship, which has evolved notably since the end of the Cold War, is characterized by extensive arms sales, joint military exercises, and strategic consultations.

Russia has traditionally been a key supplier of advanced military technology to China, significantly aiding the modernization of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Notable sales include the S-400 air defense systems and Su-35 fighter jets.

However, this aspect of their relationship has seen some shifts as China becomes more self-reliant in defense production, reducing its dependence on Russian technology. Despite this, Russia continues to be an essential partner for China, especially in areas where Chinese technology lags behind, such as jet engines and certain types of missile systems​​.

Joint Military Exercises

Joint exercises have become a cornerstone of Russia-China military relations, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. These drills, which started with the "Peace Mission" exercises in the early 2000s, have grown in complexity and scope.

They include various operational scenarios such as maritime search and rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and more. Exercises like the "Naval Interaction" series, conducted in diverse locations from the Baltic Sea to the South China Sea, highlight the global reach and increasing sophistication of their military collaboration​.

Strategic Implications

The deepening military ties between Russia and China have significant strategic implications. For Russia, these ties help mitigate the effects of international isolation and sanctions following its actions in Ukraine.

For China, the cooperation provides valuable operational experience and strengthens its strategic position against the U.S. and its allies. This partnership is underpinned by high-level political support from both nations, as evidenced by frequent summits and strategic agreements, including a five-year roadmap for military cooperation signed in 2021​​.