Russia's naval, air forces to take part in China drills

China's Ministry of National defence said on July 15 that Russia will dispatch naval and air forces for the Northern Joint-2023 military exercises.

The drills will take place in the Sea of Japan and will also include the Chinese People's Liberation Army Northern Theater Command, according to Global Times.

The exercises are designed to "further elevate the coordination capability of the two militaries and strengthen their capabilities of jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, as well as responding to various security challenges," the ministry said. The exact date of the exercises was not communicated.

"In accordance with the annual plan of cooperation between the armed forces of Russia and China, the Russian army will soon send the navy and air force to participate in the exercise 'North. Interaction-2023', organised by the northern zone of the combat command of the People's Liberation Army of China," the Chinese Defence Ministry said in a statement.