Delarestaghi made the remarks on Monday as the drills kicked off. Participating forces include the naval units of Iran’s Army, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), the Law Enforcement Force, and the Russian Federation Navy. Observers from other Caspian Sea littoral states are also in attendance.

CASAREX 2025 is being held under the slogan “Together for a Safe and Secure Caspian Sea.”

According to the spokesperson, the objectives of the exercise are to demonstrate the capabilities of regional naval forces in establishing security and safety, enhance the confidence of vessel personnel and operational units, and foster cohesion among the naval forces of Caspian-bordering countries.

Earlier on Monday, the Iranian Army's public relations department announced that Russian vessel SB738 entered the exercise area and was welcomed by Iran's Naval Forces.

Meanwhile, the commander of the Russian vessel expressed hope that such exercises would strengthen cooperation between the two countries, and that they could continue conducting these drills regularly to reinforce their forces.