China-Russia Joint Sea-2026 naval drills

China and Russia are conducting their annual Joint Sea-2026 naval exercises off the coast of Qingdao, China, from July 6 to 13, 2026. The drills involve naval forces from both countries, including a cruiser, corvette, submarine, and rescue vessel from Russia's Pacific Fleet, and two destroyers, a frigate, submarine, supply ship, and rescue vessel from China's China — Northern Theater Command. Following the exercises, selected units will conduct joint patrols in the Pacific Ocean. The drills aim to strengthen military cooperation and respond to security challenges, according to China's Ministry of National Defense. Taiwan is tracking an upward trend in Chinese naval movements during the peak exercise season, with over 110 Chinese military and Coast Guard ships observed along the First Island Chain as of early July. The exercises occur amid heightened tensions, with Western countries viewing the Sino-Russian partnership with suspicion due to Russia's war in Ukraine. China maintains neutrality in the conflict but has not condemned Russia's invasion.