The official opening ceremony of trilateral naval exercises of Russia, South Africa and China took place in South Africa, the Russian defense ministry said.
"Today in the port of Richards Bay, South Africa, the opening ceremony of a trilateral naval exercise was held, which will involve ships of the Russian Navy, the South African National Defense Force and the naval forces of the People's Liberation Army of China," the ministry said.
The opening ceremony was attended by Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, Deputy Commander of the Chinese Navy Vice Admiral Li Yujie, Deputy Chief of the Joint Command of South Africa Rear Admiral Bubele Mhlana and other distinguished guests. The Brazilian Navy is attending the exercise as an observer.
Speaking to the audience, Yevmenov expressed a deep interest in strengthening naval cooperation with Chinese and South African sailors.
The Russian Navy is represented by Admiral Gorshkov frigate, making the first long-distance voyage with hypersonic Zircon missiles, and Kama medium-size marine tanker of the Northern Fleet. Chinese Navy is represented by Rizhao frigate, Huainan destroyer and Kekexilihu supply vessel, South African Navy - by Mendi frigate.
The active stage of the exercise will be held from February 25 to 27. Sailors from the three countries will conduct joint artillery fire, practice tactical maneuvering, team search and release of a captured vessel, render assistance to a ship in distress, and repel simulated air attacks.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Public Domain
Based on materials from RIA Novosti