China, Russia successfully conclude Joint-Sea 2014 naval drills

China and Russia have successfully completed ‘Joint-Sea 2014’ naval drill in South China Sea.

The seven-day initiative started on 20 May, and was mainly targeted at escorts, search and rescue, identification, anti-submarine work and the emancipation of hijacked ships, among several other elements.

Chinese Navy director and deputy commander Tian Zhong was quoted by Xinhua news agency as saying: "The drill was another success in the two countries’ joint military actions, showcasing to the world the new level of China-Russia strategic mutual trust and collaboration."

During the exercise, about 14 warships, two submarines, nine airplanes and six helicopters participated from both sides.

Mainly aimed at testing of weapons that are harder to operate than those tested in previous exercises, the more tough confrontation exercise was also focused on combat capacities of both the navies.

Joint-Sea 2014 executive director Duan Zhaoxian said that joint naval drills are a direct and solid platform for China and Russia to deepen concrete cooperation and communication.

"They are of profound significance in their efforts to boost capabilities to cope with security threats, safeguard national sovereignty and maritime interests as well as regional security and stability," Zhaoxian added.

Russia and China have developed a regular system for the organisation and execution of war games, which pave way for potential cooperative drills.