What's Happening?
Chinese and Russian submarines have conducted a joint patrol, marking a significant step in their growing military partnership. The patrol involved two submarines and two Russian surface ships, navigating through the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan. This exercise follows a joint anti-submarine drill earlier in the month. The submarines used were Kilo-class, known for their quiet operation, which China imported from Russia. Notably, nuclear-powered submarines were not part of the exercise, possibly to avoid revealing advanced capabilities. Experts suggest this patrol could be a strategic move against AUKUS, the trilateral security pact between Australia, the UK, and the U.S., which involves nuclear submarine cooperation.
Why It's Important?
The joint patrol underscores the deepening military cooperation between China and Russia, which could pose strategic challenges for the U.S. and its allies. The exercise serves as a deterrent, signaling potential military alignment against Western interests. The absence of nuclear submarines in the patrol suggests caution in revealing high-tech capabilities, yet the collaboration itself indicates a significant level of trust and strategic alignment. This development could influence U.S. military strategy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where AUKUS aims to counterbalance Chinese influence.
What's Next?
Future cooperation between China and Russia involving nuclear submarines could indicate a more profound military alliance, potentially leading to increased technological sharing. This would necessitate a strategic response from the U.S. and its allies to address the evolving security dynamics. The ongoing monitoring of AUKUS by Chinese strategists suggests that further joint exercises may be planned as a countermeasure.
