South Africa is set host to Naval (military) drills with China and Russia in January 2026. The nation will host Exercise Mosi III with the Russian ambassador to Pretoria.
Reportedly, the Department of Defence earlier said it postponed the trilateral drills from November so they would not clash with G20 duties. Also, the officials described Mosi III as a practical rehearsal of maritime security, anti-piracy and search and rescue operations.
Considering this, Iranian naval units attended a Cape Town preparatory briefing and will also join the exercise in South African waters. The exercise is built on past Mosi manoeuvres between South Africa, Russia and China. It aims to improve joint communications and operations at sea.
Furthermore, the Defence analysts said that the drills also signal towards deeper military ties among some BRICS partners and raised questions about regional maritime politics.
Noting this, Defence Analyst – Dean Wingrin stated that the timing and partners might change the political stakes.
South Africa is set host Naval (military) drills with China and Russia in January 2026. pic.twitter.com/3PQgQD73nZ
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) December 24, 2025
The Department of Defence acknowledged the initiative and stressed that rescheduling the move was logistical and appreciated the responsibility towards the G20 calendar. They said that South Africa remains committed to multilateral military cooperation.
The officials stated that it is good for local fishermen, port workers and shipping companies who will watch the exercises closely. The Navy officials said that the planned co-ordination aims to limit disruption towards commercial traffic, and it is also their objective and duty to protect coastal communities.
These drills are not just about military muscle, these aim to build trust among BRICS nations, a group that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members like Iran since 2024. By working together on the seas, these countries hope to boost their ability to protect trade routes and respond to emergencies, which is vital for economies that rely on shipping.
The Department of Defence has defended the exercises, saying they fit with South Africa’s commitment to work with many countries on defence matters. Officials stress that Mosi III is about boosting safety at sea, not making political statements. They have promised to keep things smooth for local people, like fishermen and port workers, by limiting any hold-ups in shipping lanes and watching out for coastal areas.
Navy leaders said that the drills will not harm everyday life and could even bring benefits, like better skills for South African sailors. With piracy still a problem off Africa’s coasts, such training is seen as a smart way to protect trade and lives.