Nong Hong

Opinion | How the West can navigate Sino-Russian cooperation in the Arctic

As China and Russia deepen Arctic cooperation, Western nations must collectively balance engagement with vigilance to mitigate tensions

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Nong Hong

Published: 8:30pm, 26 Nov 2024

The China-Russia partnership has reached unprecedented levels, propelled by mutual strategic interests in Arctic governance and a shared objective of countering Western influence. This partnership is reflected in recent joint military activities, enhanced maritime cooperation and increasingly integrated Arctic policies.

Two high-profile military exercises – “Northern/Interaction-2024” and “Ocean-2024” – highlight the depth of China-Russian military cooperation.

The Northern/Interaction-2024 exercise emphasised anti-submarine warfare and aerial defence. The drills tested advanced interoperability between the two nations’ naval forces, underscoring their preparedness for joint operations in sensitive regions.

Ocean-2024 reportedly focused on simulated defensive strategies to protect vital infrastructure and on offensive amphibious landings on unprepared terrain. These simulations reflect an emphasis on maintaining operational readiness against potential threats such as those posed by Nato.

These exercises are not only about shoring up Arctic defence capabilities; they also send signals to Western nations, emphasising the partnership’s ability to project power in the geopolitically contested region. The Chinese coastguard’s first joint patrol with its Russian counterparts in Arctic waters last month marked a significant milestone in bilateral maritime cooperation.

Conducted during China’s National Day celebrations and the 75th anniversary of Sino-Russian diplomatic relations, the operation tested the vessels’ ability to perform in challenging Arctic conditions. Operating in Russia’s exclusive economic zone and the Bering Sea near Alaska, the patrol highlighted enhanced maritime coordination and reinforced their shared commitment to Arctic ambitions.