China and Vietnam have agreed to expand joint naval exercises to include live-fire drills, signaling deeper military cooperation despite ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.
According to Vietnam’s state media, the agreement was reached during a meeting between naval officials in southern China, as Vietnamese warships joined Chinese vessels for their 40th joint patrol.
China, Vietnam agree to live-fire drills in naval exercise boost https://t.co/1fbT0mkKcf
— South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews) March 17, 2026
The report said the drills will include live-fire training as part of anti-piracy operations, marking a first for naval cooperation between the two countries.
Chinese authorities said the exercises will take place in the Gulf of Tonkin and nearby waters. The initiative is part of broader engagement, including cultural exchanges and joint activities.
The development comes alongside high-level talks in Hanoi, where both sides emphasized strengthening strategic ties. Vietnamese leader To Lam described relations with China as a top priority.
Despite territorial disputes, both nations are deepening political and defense coordination.
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
