The South African National Defence Force has confirmed that it will host a multinational naval exercise involving BRICS Plus partner countries in January 2026.
The exercise, titled Will for Peace 2026, will take place in South African waters from 9 to 16 January and will include naval forces from China, Russia and Iran.
According to the SANDF, the joint drill is focused on maritime safety, interoperability and the protection of shared sea routes rather than combat operations. “Exercise Will for Peace 2026 brings together navies from BRICS Plus countries for an intensive programme of joint maritime safety operations, interoperability drills and maritime protection serials,” said Brigadier General Nditsheni Singo, Acting General Officer Commanding Joint Operational Headquarters of the South African National Defence Force.
He added that the exercise reflects a collective commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation and shared operational procedures in support of peaceful maritime security initiatives. The announcement comes amid political debate within South Africa over the country’s foreign policy posture and military cooperation with global partners.
Government has previously stated that South Africa follows a non aligned approach in its international relations and engages with multiple global blocs. Defence officials have emphasised that multinational military exercises are routine and aimed at skills development, coordination and maritime security rather than signalling political alignment.