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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
RFI

South Africa’s joint drills a show of influence in the Indian Ocean

Africa Indian Ocean South Africa China Russia Ocean Iran Moscow Beijing RFI
Chinese and Iranian ships in the Simon's Town harbour near Cape Town, on 8 January 2026. © AFP - RODGER BOSCH

Launching on Friday, South Africa's joint naval exercise with China, Russia and Iran goes beyond manoeuvres at sea. The drills signal determination to project influence in southern Africa, a region that holds growing strategic importance for Moscow and Beijing.

The Mosi-3 exercise will run for a week off the coast of Cape Town, under Chinese leadership, with South Africa acting as host.

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