"The BRICS joint maritime exercise 'Will for Peace 2026', involving China, Russia and South Africa, concluded on Friday in the airspace and waters near Simon's Town, as military cooperation grows among the bloc’s member states. Footage shows visitors with South African and Chinese flags boarding a warship as soldiers stand in formation. The vessels are seen sailing at sea, showcasing artillery firing, while maritime forces conduct a 'hijacked ship' exercise during the joint operation. The drills took place from January 9 to 16 off Simon’s Town, divided into two phases, with phase one involving port activities such as an opening ceremony, ship tours, cultural exchanges, and professional interactions between navies. The second phase, conducted at sea from January 13 to 15, reportedly involved coordinated naval operations, including communication exercises, formation manoeuvres, maritime strike capabilities, and drills for hijacked vessel rescue, helicopter-borne patient transfer, and medical treatment. Participating member states say the drills were aimed at enhancing collective maritime security and strengthening military cooperation, with exercises focused on counter-terrorism, anti-piracy operations, and search and rescue (SAR) missions. BRICS member nation India opted not to participate in the joint exercise."