On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, the Chinese and Russian militaries carried out their 10th joint strategic air patrol over the East China Sea and the western part of the Pacific Ocean. The operation falls under an annual cooperation plan designed to strengthen defense collaboration between the Chinese mainland and Russian forces.
Since 2019, the two sides have launched ten strategic air missions, averaging nearly two patrols annually. These operations often include coordinated training in maritime surveillance, air-to-air refueling and navigation drills, aimed at boosting interoperability and readiness across key sea lanes.
Regional experts note that this latest patrol comes amid evolving security dynamics in the Asia-Pacific. As other major powers deepen ties with regional partners, the Chinese mainland and Russia are showcasing their own strategic partnership in the skies.
A defense analyst based in Singapore adds, “These joint exercises underline a deepening of military cooperation and signal strategic coordination. By flying over critical maritime corridors, both sides demonstrate their capacity to operate jointly in complex environments.”
Looking ahead, both militaries are expected to continue such strategic sorties under their annual cooperation framework, with observers watching for potential expansion into new operational zones and advanced joint drills in 2026. As global attention shifts to emerging security alignments, these patrols offer a window into the evolving nature of Sino-Russian ties and their impact on the wider geopolitical landscape.
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Chinese, Russian militaries conduct 10th joint strategic air patrol
cgtn.com
