China’s Militarization of BRICS Risks US Sanctions: Analysts

Beijing-led drills in South Africa expose a strategic bid to challenge Washington, though experts note the joint naval capabilities remain limited.

A general view of a Chinese military vessel docked at the port in Richards Bay on Feb. 22, 2023, as South Africa embarked on a 10-day joint military exercise with Russia and China.Guillem Sartorio/AFP via Getty Images

Beijing is exploiting recent joint naval maneuvers by BRICS nations to transform the bloc into a military one, a provocative shift that signals a direct challenge to Washington and could trigger punitive tariffs against member states, experts warn.

Navies from China, Russia, and other BRICS nations launched the “Will for Peace 2026” drills at the Simon’s Town naval base in South Africa on Jan. 9, initiating a joint operation that continues through Jan. 16.