South Africa is intensifying efforts to transform BRICS from an economic bloc into a potential global naval force. This month, Tehran confirmed that Iran’s navy will join the upcoming “Mosi III” naval drills off Cape Town, marking a significant expansion of the exercises previously limited to South Africa, Russia, and China.
Representatives from Ethiopia and Indonesia also attended the preparatory briefing, underscoring the bloc’s growing defense ambitions.
The decision follows Pretoria’s earlier move to delay the drills, originally planned for November, in hopes of securing greater international participation at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg. Despite the postponement, Iran’s inclusion demonstrates South Africa’s willingness to deepen military ties with fellow BRICS partners.
Russia, China, and Iran have already conducted joint operations in the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean since 2019 under the “Maritime Security Belt” series. By bringing such cooperation into southern African waters, Pretoria is strengthening its position along crucial shipping lanes around the Cape of Good Hope — routes that have grown more congested following Houthi attacks on Red Sea trade.
Critics warn, however, that allowing Iranian naval vessels into these waters may expose South Africa to secondary sanctions and drive up already high maritime insurance costs. The move highlights a broader tilt in Pretoria’s foreign policy. While the African National Congress (ANC) government insists it remains nonaligned, recent military diplomacy tells a different story.
On August 14 in Tehran, South Africa’s defense chief Rudzani Maphwanya stated, “The Republic of South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran share common goals and will always support the oppressed and defenseless people of the world.”
Though later disavowed by the Foreign Ministry, the remarks reflect a pattern of alignment with Moscow, Beijing, and Tehran.
These signals are far from neutral. By embracing Mosi III and honoring Russian and Chinese defense ties, South Africa appears determined to elevate BRICS beyond trade and diplomacy into the realm of collective military power. Whether this strategy strengthens its global standing or invites economic risk remains an open question.
