Armada International posted on 20 January 2026 an article titled "China and Russia in BRICS Naval Exercise Hosted by South Africa -- Iran Drops Out" by David Oliver.
South Africa hosted from 9 to 16 January a naval exercise for BRICS member states. China and Russia sent warships that participated. Iran sent three ships but was asked to drop out after their arrival. The UAE sent a naval vessel that did not participate. Brazil and India chose not to send ships.
The ships that participated conducted drills on communication, formation maneuver, maritime strike, hijacked vessel rescue, helicopter-borne casualty transfer and treatment.
Comment: If one of the goals of the BRICS is to create a military alliance, this event did not offer a good omen.
