Russia to check hypersonic missile in drills with China, South Africa – a primary for a world train

Russia is ready to start conducting naval drills with China and South Africa on Friday in a trilateral show of worldwide cooperation – and showcase a strong weapon.

The Admiral Gorshkov, a Russian frigate, arrived in Capetown, South Africa, this week forward of the joint drills that may happen in South Africa’s Indian Ocean. 

RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR: BELARUS WILL JOIN FIGHT IF EVEN ‘ONE SOLDIER’ ATTACKS TERRITORY, PRESIDENT SAYS

Russia mentioned it examined a hypersonic Zircon cruise missile within the Barents Sea, May 28, 2022. (Russian Ministry of Defense)

A protest is held outdoors the Russian consulate in Cape Town, South Africa, Friday, Feb. 17, 2023, in opposition to naval workouts off the east coast of the nation. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

The Admiral Gorshkov is predicted to test-fire a Zircon hypersonic missile – the primary launch of its sort in a world train, state media outlet Tass experiences. The Zircon hypersonic missile can penetrate any missile defenses to strike targets at sea and on land, Russia says.

The workouts are set to run for 10 days and can coincide by way of Feb. 24, the one-year anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine.

South Africa’s determination to take part within the drills has sparked controversy, with the opposition social gathering claiming it demonstrates approval of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

AMERICANS TOLD TO LEAVE RUSSIA ‘IMMEDIATELY’ OR FACE FALSE ARRESTS, US WARNS

People on a yacht protest in opposition to the Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov being docked on the Cape Town, South Africa, Tuesday, Feb. ​14​, 2023. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

Kobus Marais, shadow protection minister of the Democratic Alliance, has questioned the motivations for going by way of with the plan, calling it “one other dangerous judgment, a humiliation.” 

South African navy officers mentioned the “multinational maritime train” will “strengthen the already flourishing relations between South Africa, Russia and China.”

A protest is held outdoors the Russian consulate in Cape Town, South Africa, Friday, Feb. 17, 2023. (AP Photo/Nardus Engelbrecht)

The same train was held in South Africa’s territorial waters in November 2019, between the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Columbine.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.