"China and Russia Launch Joint Air and Sea Drill in Sea of Japan"

China and Russia are set to conduct a joint air and sea drill in the Sea of Japan, aimed at safeguarding strategic waterways. The exercise, codenamed "Northern/Interaction-2023," signifies increased military cooperation between the two countries since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A Chinese flotilla consisting of five warships and four ship-borne helicopters has departed from Qingdao and will rendezvous with Russian forces in a predetermined area. This marks the first time Russian naval and air forces will participate in the drill. The partnership between China and Russia includes a focus on military cooperation, as both sides have pledged to strengthen their military ties.