India clarified its non-participation in the ‘Exercise Will For Peace 2026’ naval exercise held in Cape Town, emphasizing that it was a South African initiative with some BRICS members involved. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that this exercise was not a regular BRICS activity, and not all BRICS countries participated in it.
The Ministry further explained that India typically engages in the IBSAMAR maritime exercise, which includes navies from India, Brazil, and South Africa. The last edition of IBSAMAR took place in October 2024, highlighting India’s consistent involvement in such activities.
The ‘Exercise Will For Peace 2026’ aimed to enhance joint maritime safety operations and interoperability among navies from BRICS Plus countries. The participating nations focused on ensuring the safety of shipping and maritime economic activities, emphasizing cooperation for peaceful maritime security initiatives.
The Chinese Defence Ministry disclosed the participation of its guided-missile destroyer Tangshan and comprehensive supply ship Taihu in the exercise, along with vessels from the Russian Navy and the South African Navy. The drills included maritime strike, rescue operations, joint search and rescue missions, and other coordinated activities to strengthen maritime security.
