According to information published by Chinamil on September 29, 2023, China and Saudi Arabia are set to conduct their "Blue Sword-2023" joint naval special operations training this coming October in Zhanjiang, Guangdong province.
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Opening ceremony of Blue Sword in 2019. (Picture source: chinamil)
The upcoming exercise will emphasize overseas maritime counter-terrorism operations and will include training in sniping tactics, boat maneuvers, helicopter landings, and joint rescue missions.
This marks the second collaboration of its kind between the two naval forces. The initiative seeks to bolster the ongoing pragmatic and cordial military cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia, while also enhancing the combat readiness of their troops.
Context
For some years now, cooperation has not been limited to exercises. There were concrete developments in the realm of defense technology and procurement. Reports highlighted China's collaboration with Saudi Arabia in the production of ballistic missiles.
This was seen as a testament to China's soft military approach towards the Middle East, where it sought to establish itself as a reliable defense partner without overtly upsetting the existing geopolitical balance.
The naval cooperation between the two nations wasn't just a bilateral affair. It was intricately linked with broader regional dynamics. The presence of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the region was increasing, aligning with Saudi Arabia's “Look East” strategy. This strategy was Saudi Arabia's approach to diversify its diplomatic and economic partnerships, reducing its over-reliance on Western allies.
