Caspian sea: The Iranian and Russian navies will launch a three-day joint military exercise in the Caspian Sea tomorrow (Monday), in a demonstration of growing defense cooperation between the two nations. The drill, codenamed "CASAREX 2025," is being hosted by the Iranian Navy's Northern Fleet according to a statement released on the Iranian army's official news portal.

According to Oman News Agency, the exercise involves vessels and personnel from both the Iranian and Russian navies, with additional participation from Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy - which operates independently from the regular navy - and the Iranian Coast Guard.

Naval officials stated the primary objectives of the drills include enhancing maritime security, improving operational coordination between forces, and fostering greater collaboration among Caspian Sea nations. The exercises will focus on search-and-rescue operations, anti-piracy measures, and tactical interoperability training.

This marks the latest in a series of joint military exercises between Iran and Russia, who have been strengthening defense ties in recent years. The Caspian Sea, the world's largest inland body of water, holds significant strategic importance due to its substantial energy resources and key trade routes.

The drills come as Iran continues to modernize its naval capabilities in the region, having recently added several domestically-produced warships to its Caspian fleet. Both nations have emphasized the defensive nature of the exercises, which they say are aimed at maintaining regional stability and security.

Previous joint maneuvers between Iranian and Russian forces in the Caspian Sea have included live-fire exercises and complex tactical scenarios. Military analysts note that such cooperation reflects the deepening strategic partnership between Tehran and Moscow amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with Western nations.