The exercise encompassed a variety of maneuvers designed to perfect the art of naval warfare under coordinated command. The participating vessels, including the notable Russian corvettes “Gromky,” “Sovershenny,” and “Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov,” along with China’s formidable destroyers “Xining” and “Wuxi,” undertook complex scenarios ranging from air defense to anti-submarine and mine countermeasures.

One of the highlights of the exercise was the adept handling of a simulated air attack where the allied fleets demonstrated precision in utilizing live artillery. This included deft navigation through mine-laden waters and successful neutralization of a detected sea mine, illustrating a high level of preparedness in mine warfare.

Further, the fleets engaged in tackling high-speed unmanned boats and aerial drones, which are becoming increasingly critical in modern naval strategies. The nighttime operations featured targeted shooting exercises aimed at maritime targets, demonstrating the fleets’ prowess in nocturnal combat scenarios.

This formidable alliance and their demonstrative exercises serve as a strategic message to NATO and its allies, amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine. The Russian and Chinese naval powers are not only enhancing their interoperability but also sending a clear signal of their military capabilities and strategic alignment.

Details of the Attacks:

Makhachkala: Gunmen attacked a synagogue and a traffic police post. Heavy gunfire was reported at the Russian Orthodox Assumption Cathedral.

Derbent: The attackers targeted the Orthodox Church of the Intercession of the Holy Virgin and the Kele-Numaz Synagogue. The synagogue, which is over 110 years old, was set on fire.
The attackers used automatic weapons and Molotov cocktails, causing significant casualties and damage. Six of the gunmen were killed during the incidents. The governor of Dagestan, Sergei Melikov, declared three days of mourning from June 24 to 26, with flags lowered to half-staff and all entertainment events cancelled.

Background and Response: Dagestan has a history of Islamist insurgency, and the region has seen a resurgence of violence in recent years. The attacks come three months after a major terrorist attack near Moscow, which was claimed by the Islamic State. Authorities have launched a counterterrorism operation in response to the attacks.

The international community has condemned the attacks, and there is an ongoing investigation to identify the perpetrators and their motives.