Warships from China, Iran, and soon Russia have docked at South Africa’s primary naval base in Simon’s Town, near Cape Town, as preparations intensify for a multinational naval drill that could further strain Pretoria’s relations with the United States.
The week-long exercise, dubbed “Will for Peace 2026” and running from January 9 to 16, is hosted by South Africa and led by China. It involves navies from expanded BRICS+ nations, with a stated focus on enhancing the “safety of shipping and maritime economic activities,” according to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
On Thursday, journalists observed two Chinese vessels—the guided-missile destroyer Tangshan (Hull 122) and the comprehensive supply ship Taihu (Hull 889)—already in False Bay harbour since Wednesday. They were joined by Iranian ships, including the forward base ship IRIS Makran (441), the expeditionary base ship IRIS Shahid Mahdavi, and the corvette Naghdi. Russian warships, including a frigate and supply vessel, are en route and expected to arrive soon.
The drills aim to promote joint maritime safety operations, interoperability, and protection of trade routes, marking deepened military cooperation within the BRICS+ framework following Iran’s recent membership.
However, the participation of Russia and Iran—both under heavy U.S. sanctions—has reignited concerns over South Africa’s foreign policy under President Cyril Ramaphosa. U.S. President Donald Trump has previously labeled BRICS nations as pursuing “anti-American” agendas. South Africa has faced Washington criticism for its ties with Moscow, including a controversial 2023 naval exercise with Russia and China that coincided with the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as well as Pretoria’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Domestic opposition, including from the Democratic Alliance (a coalition partner), has accused the government of undermining its non-aligned stance by hosting the event.
Chinese state media has hailed the exercise as a “new model of security cooperation” among BRICS+ countries, while Western observers view it as a signal of shifting global alliances.
The SANDF emphasised the drills’ peaceful intent, stating they would “deepen cooperation in support of peaceful maritime security initiatives.” As vessels gather in False Bay, the world watches whether this display of BRICS unity will escalate geopolitical frictions in an already polarized landscape.