Russia, Iran and China are set to carry out joint naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman next month, according to Russia’s Defence Ministry. The announcement signals another round of military coordination among the three countries in a strategically sensitive waterway near the entrance to the Persian Gulf.

The ministry did not provide detailed information about the scope of the drills, but such exercises typically involve maritime security, communications, and coordination at sea. The Gulf of Oman links the Arabian Sea to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes for energy exports.

The exercise comes as the three governments continue to deepen defense and political ties while facing varying degrees of pressure from Western powers. For Iran, the drills are also likely to be presented by officials as evidence of international backing, even as the country grapples with domestic economic strain and political repression.

Joint military activity in the region often draws close attention because of the risk of miscalculation in already tense waters. Any large-scale maneuver near key shipping lanes can raise concerns among regional states and commercial operators alike, especially if it involves multiple foreign navies operating in proximity.