Chinese and Russian naval forces have left the southern Russian port city of Novorossiysk to conduct "Joint Sea-2015" drills. The military exercises will be held in the Mediterranean, with nine ships from both navies taking place.
The drills will be staged in four phases, focusing on maritime defense, replenishment and escort. Commanders from both countries have already met to familiarize themselves with the mission, and how it will be coordinated. They also discussed detailed arrangements for the joint drills.