China and Russia Conduct Third Joint Anti-Missile Drills on Russian Territory Amid Rising Global Tensions

China and Russia have conducted the third round of joint anti-missile drills, which took place on Russian territory in December 2025. The exercises have been aimed at strengthening the cooperation between the two countries' missile defense systems against possible ballistic and cruise missile threats.

The drills included simulated scenarios of missile attacks, joint command coordination, and technical exchanges between military personnel. The two nations made it known that the exercises dealt only with defense, strategically aimed to improve trust and ensure regional stability.

The latest round of drills underlines a deepening military partnership between Beijing and Moscow, which has expanded significantly in recent years. The cooperation reflects shared concerns over global security challenges and the need to safeguard their respective territories against advanced missile technologies.

Observers say the timing of the drills underlines the determination of the two countries to demonstrate cohesion and readiness against changing geopolitical landscapes. While officials stressed that the exercises were not directed at any third party, the joint effort sends a clear signal of their growing defense collaboration.

The furtherance of these drills indicates a longer-term commitment to joint military readiness; further cooperation between the two sides on missile defense and other security initiatives is likely to be pursued.