South Africa has begun a China-led naval drill with Russia and Iran near the strategic Cape sea lane, drawing attention from Washington and global defense watchers. Exercise Will For Peace 2026 kicked off on January 9 and is scheduled through January 16 in waters off Cape Town and Simon’s Town.
The main objective of the multinational exercise is to enhance joint maritime safety operations and interoperability among participating navies, with a focus on safeguarding shipping routes and economic activity.
Exercise Overview
Participating navies include China, Russia and Iran alongside host South Africa. The BRICS Plus framework has expanded beyond the original five founding members to include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and others, with several countries attending as observers.
South African officials describe the drills as essential for cooperation in a complex maritime environment. The exercise theme reflects its stated aim to support the safety of maritime trade routes near one of the world’s busiest transit points when alternative routes are needed.
Geopolitical Context
The naval drills occur amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving the United States and several BRICS Plus nations. Washington has expressed concern over the grouping’s direction and its implications for Western-led security frameworks. South Africa’s ruling coalition has defended the exercise as apolitical and professional.
Domestic political debate within South Africa reflects mixed views. Some opposition figures argue participation could impact diplomatic relations, while defense officials emphasize professional benefits.
Strategic Location
The Cape sea lane area, at the junction of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, serves as a critical alternative to routes such as the Red Sea and Suez Canal. Operating in this area allows navies to practice escort, patrol and coordinated logistics in a high-traffic environment, underlining the broader maritime security intent of the exercise.
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