China and Russia launched their first ever joint naval exercises today in the Yellow Sea. The exercises will last until April 27th.
The AP reported, via Free Republic:
China and Russia launched joint naval exercises Sunday that highlight warming ties between their militaries and growing cooperation in international affairs. Chinese state broadcaster CCTV said the six days of drills feature simulated anti-aircraft, anti-submarine and search-and-rescue operations, including electronic countermeasures and other sensitive technologies.
Retired major general Yin Zhuo said it shows a high degree of trust between the sides. "It's an excellent exchange for China to be able to drill jointly in such sensitive areas," Yin told CCTV.
China's Defense Ministry said China was sending two submarines and 16 ships to take part, including destroyers, escort vessels and hospital ships. The deputy chiefs of the countries' navies oversaw the start of drills in the northeastern Chinese port of Qingdao, the home of China's northern fleet.
