BRICS Naval Drill in Indian Ocean Raises Eyebrows as India Stays Away

Cape Town, January 10, 2026: Warships from China, Russia, and Iran have gathered off South Africa’s coast for a week-long naval exercise, hosted by South Africa, aimed at enhancing maritime security and anti-piracy cooperation among the BRICS countries. The exercise began on Friday, amid heightened geopolitical tensions following US operations near Venezuela, including the seizure of Venezuelan oil tankers.

The drill has drawn attention because India, a key BRICS member alongside China, Russia, and South Africa, has chosen to stay away. Iran, which joined the BRICS group in 2024, is participating despite ongoing domestic protests, while India has opted out to maintain a cautious stance in the current geopolitical climate.

Deployment of Ships

The exercise is taking place near Simon’s Town, South Africa’s premier naval base, where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. Chinese participation includes the 161-meter (528-foot) destroyer Tangshan. Russia has deployed the 7,000-ton Marshal Shaposhnikov, along with a destroyer-frigate and a tanker, while Iran has sent two frigates. South Africa is contributing three vessels, including an offshore patrol ship. Analysts say the drill could increase tensions between the US and South Africa, which has already been under US scrutiny.

Why India Stayed Away

India was formally invited to the drill but chose not to participate. Media reports suggest the decision was influenced by concerns over China’s presence and a desire to maintain limited defense engagement with Beijing. Experts view India’s absence as indicative of its broader strategic approach toward China: cooperating selectively while keeping military collaboration constrained. While China emphasizes joint naval exercises, India has shown minimal enthusiasm for full-scale participation.