Russian forces are participating in a regular Chinese military exercise for the first time this week, stoking concerns among western analysts that the two US adversaries are developing joint operational capabilities.
Joint Western 2021, a drill in the western region of Ningxia involving more than 10,000 troops, focuses on early warning and reconnaissance, electronic warfare and joint attacks, according to statements from the Chinese and Russian defence ministries.
With the US withdrawing its remaining forces from Afghanistan, and after both Beijing and Moscow have had contact with the Taliban, the drill is being closely watched for signs that Chinese and Russian forces are learning to co-ordinate missions and conduct joint operations.
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