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China, Russia, and Iran have initiated the “Security Bond-2023” naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman. This five-day exercise aims to safeguard vital maritime routes. Aerial search and rescue missions, maritime rescue operations, fleet formation exercises, and other specified responsibilities will be part of the exercise. China’s navy has sent five warships, including the guided-missile destroyer ‘Nanning,’ to participate in the drills, which are mostly focused on non-combat activities such as maritime rescue and search and rescue operations.
Daily Current Affairs Quiz: July 2023
Security Bond Drills Coincide with International Maritime Exercise 2023, the Largest in the Middle East Region
The Security Bond drills are occurring simultaneously with the final phase of the 18-day International Maritime Exercise 2023 (IMX 2023), which is recognized as the largest maritime exercise in the Middle East region. IMX 2023 began on March 2 at the Bahrain headquarters of the US 5th Fleet, marking the eighth edition since its inception in 2012. The US-led event currently includes 50 countries and international organisations, including France, Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, NATO, and Interpol.
Guided-missile destroyer: Nanning
Equipped with cutting-edge integrated radar and a 64-cell vertical launch system capable of deploying air defense, land attack, anti-ship, and anti-submarine missiles, the Nanning, a 7,500-tonne vessel was launched on February 23, 2019.
Having undertaken missions in the Indian Ocean, the vessel has recently participated in the Pakistan-led multinational naval exercise AMAN-23, which took place in the Arabian Sea. Additionally, it also joined the International Defense Exhibition held in Abu Dhabi.
Security Bond Exercise: Strengthening Maritime Security and Promoting Regional Stability
The Security Bond exercise aims to showcase the collective determination and capabilities of the participating nations in safeguarding maritime security. It also seeks to foster a shared future for the sea, promoting regional peace and stability. The US acknowledges the joint drills without viewing them as a new danger, but it will keep an eye on the developing connections between two adversaries. The exercise acts as a platform for improving practical cooperation among participating navies, strengthening regional peace and stability.
Key takeaways for competitive examinations
- China’s defence minister Li Shangfu
- Current edition of “Security Bond-2023” exercise: Third
- The previous editions of the “Security Bond-2023” exercise took place in: 2019 and 2022