The Chinese and Russian militaries completed their tenth joint strategic air patrol on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, marking six years of sustained defense coordination between the two nations. The operation covered designated airspace over the East China Sea and western Pacific Ocean as part of an annual bilateral cooperation plan.
Since initiating these exercises in 2019, the patrols have become a cornerstone of military diplomacy between Beijing and Moscow. This year's maneuvers involved advanced aircraft conducting coordinated flight patterns, with both defense ministries emphasizing the exercises adhere to international law and are not targeted at third parties.
Analysts note the timing reinforces stability commitments amid evolving regional security dynamics. The patrols occur as Asia-Pacific nations intensify dialogue on maritime safety and airspace management frameworks. While Western observers frequently scrutinize these drills, Chinese and Russian officials characterize them as routine confidence-building measures between strategic partners.
