Russia launched massive naval and air drills on September 10, 2024, known as “Ocean-2024,” involving over 400 naval vessels, at least 120 military aircraft, and upwards of 90,000 troops.

The exercise includes forces from China and will run until September 16, with at least 15 countries invited to observe. Chinese and Russian naval fleets will conduct their fifth joint patrol in the Pacific Ocean as part of “Ocean-2024.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized military cooperation with “friendly states” and warned the U.S. against trying to outgun Russia in Asia. Putin claimed the U.S. and its allies are increasing their military presence near Russia’s western borders, in the Arctic, and in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Chinese Defense Ministry announced joint naval and aerial exercises to strengthen strategic cooperation and respond to security threats near the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk.

Military analysts suggest the drills aim to deepen military ties between Russia and China and counter U.S. and allied security coordination in the Indo-Pacific region. The exercises are part of a broader effort by China and Russia to challenge U.S. and NATO military activities, with recent joint drills occurring in the South China Sea, off Alaska, and in the Gulf of Finland.

Japan has expressed grave concerns about the increased military cooperation between China and Russia near its territory, fearing destabilization of sea lines of communication and other regional threats.