South Africa is in talks with China and Russia to postpone a major BRICS naval exercise originally planned for November 2025 as Pretoria focuses on its responsibilities as G20 chair. The South African Department of Defence confirmed this week that engagements are underway to find a new date for the biennial maritime drill, citing the need to avoid any logistical or security clashes during the country’s G20 presidency.

Officials noted that the naval exercise, which would have been the third joint drill among BRICS partners, is traditionally hosted every two years, with China set to lead the 2025 event. South African representatives say they are consulting with their counterparts in Beijing, as well as the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, to secure a mutually suitable date. According to the statement, the aim is to ensure the high-profile military exercise does not interfere with the extensive arrangements required for South Africa’s stewardship of the G20.

Defence authorities emphasised that the move does not represent a shift away from multinational co-operation. South Africa’s armed forces have a longstanding record of participating in joint military exercises with a diverse set of partners, including Brazil, France, Germany, Russia, China, and the United States. Officials stated that these engagements help build multilateral and bilateral relationships and will continue as part of South Africa’s defence policy.

With global attention on South Africa’s G20 leadership, the priority is to ensure the country can fulfil its international obligations while maintaining strong military partnerships. The postponement also comes in the midst of fraught trade negotiations between the United States and South Africa, with South Africa having been hit by high tariffs levied by the Trump administration.

However, the move is likely to be viewed negatively by both Moscow and Beijing

In addition, analysts told The Common Sense that the exercise was not a BRICS exercise, as claimed by South African authorities.

The true reason for the postponement is likely because of both external and internal pressure on the South African government, regarding its choice of allies. This also shows that Pretoria is willing to amend policies based on pressure from abroad, even though South African authorities are attempting to show the decision as a unilateral one.