Belarusian troops arrive in Russia for second phase of military drills

Belarusian Air Force and air defence personnel have arrived at Russia’s Ashuluk training ground to take part in the second phase of joint operational-tactical exercises, Belarus’ Ministry of Defence said.

The second stage of the exercises will include live-fire drills involving units of Belarus’ 115th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment and 8th Radio-Technical Brigade, which had previously travelled to Russia by rail, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The ministry said the personnel have been accommodated at a field camp equipped with tents, a field kitchen, canteen, medical post, recreation and information room, and sports facilities.

In the coming days, the servicemen are expected to receive military equipment, prepare it for combat use and undergo tests required to obtain authorisation for live-fire exercises.

Belarus’ Ministry of Defence previously announced that operational-tactical exercises involving the country’s Air Force and Air Defence Forces would be held from August 25 to September 10. The second phase is being conducted at the Ashuluk training ground in Russia.

By Sabina Mammadli