The naval exercise "Will for Peace 2026" (Will for Peace 2026) of BRICS countries officially began off the coast of Cape Town (South Africa) from January 10, in the context of the international maritime security situation showing many complex developments.
Speaking to the media, South African Deputy Defense Minister Bantu Holomisa said that joint exercises with BRICS partners, including Russia, China and Iran, are necessary to ensure safety on important sea routes.
He emphasized that this is not a response to recent moves by the US, but an activity that has been planned for months.
We should not panic just because the US has problems with some countries. They are not our enemies" - Mr. Holomisa said, while saying South Africa's focus is on cooperation with BRICS countries to ensure security in the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
The exercise took place just days after US forces arrested a Russian oil tanker on charges of violating sanctions related to Venezuela. Previously, Washington also arrested 5 other oil tankers in the Caribbean region as part of a maritime blockade campaign targeting this South American nation.
According to military sources, "Will for Peace 2026" has the participation of destroyers from South Africa, China and Iran, while Russia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) send frigates. Some other BRICS countries such as Brazil, Indonesia and Ethiopia participate as observers. The exercise is expected to end on January 16.
The exercise focuses on naval coordination activities, ensuring maritime security, rescue and relief, and improving interaction between participating forces.
Notably, "Will for Peace 2026" is an expanded and renamed version of the Mosi (Smoke) naval exercise between South Africa, China and Russia.
According to the initial plan, the 3rd Mosi was scheduled to take place in November last year off Cape Town, but was postponed due to South Africa hosting the G20 Summit. After that, the parties decided to reorganize the exercise on a larger scale and expand the number of participating countries.
South African officials affirmed that the exercise is regular, serving the goal of cooperation and maritime security, not aimed at any specific country.
