WANA ( Jul 21) – The 2025 Caspian Sea Combined Search and Rescue Exercise (CASAREX 2025) officially began today, featuring participation from the naval forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation.

 

The joint drill is hosted by Iran’s Northern Naval Fleet and the Fourth Naval Zone of Imam Reza (AS), and will run for three days in both coastal and maritime phases.

 

Rear Admiral Second Class Mohsen Razaghi, spokesperson for CASAREX 2025, announced during a press briefing that the exercise also includes units from Iran’s Army Navy, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and the Law Enforcement Command, as well as observers from other Caspian littoral states.

 

Held under the motto “Together for a Safe and Secure Caspian Sea,” the exercise aims to implement directives from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, focusing on enhancing international naval cooperation, strengthening regional maritime diplomacy, and ensuring safety and security for commercial navigation in the Caspian Sea.

 

According to Admiral Razaghi, the drill seeks to develop a mutually agreed framework for future joint exercises and highlights Iran’s commitment to maritime security. “This exercise demonstrates the firm determination of the Islamic Republic of Iran to safeguard maritime safety and security across various dimensions,” he emphasized.

 

Key objectives of the drill include:

  • Practicing regional naval capabilities in ensuring maritime safety,
  • Boosting confidence and operational readiness among naval personnel,
  • Enhancing regional naval convergence among Caspian coastal states.

 

Admiral Razaghi underscored Iran’s unwavering stance on regional and international maritime security, stating, “Iran will not tolerate any violations in its maritime domain and will work closely with Caspian neighbors to maintain full safety and security.”

 

The exercise features a range of operations, including:

  • Assisting distressed vessels,
  • Vertical personnel transfers,
  • Search and rescue missions,
  • Man-overboard drills,
  • Naval formations and officer-of-the-watch maneuvers,
  • Aerial reconnaissance and photography,
  • A joint naval parade.

 

Russian participation includes the SB738 naval vessel. Speaking on the sidelines of the drill, Lieutenant Commander Maksim Glod, commander of SB738, said, “The purpose of joining this exercise is to enhance cooperation and assess the strength and capabilities of both countries’ naval forces.” He expressed hope that such drills would continue regularly to further improve joint readiness and interoperability.

Iran and Russia Launch Joint Caspian Sea Search and Rescue Exercise. Social media/ WANA News Agency