Nuclear posture in focus as Russia activates strategic military training drills

Russian Armed Forces are conducting exercises from May 19 to 21 focused on preparations for the use of nuclear forces in conditions of a threat of aggression, the Russian Ministry of Defence said.

The drills involve the Strategic Missile Forces, the Pacific Fleet, the Northern Fleet, the Long-Range Aviation Command, as well as elements of the Leningrad and Central Military Districts, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

According to the ministry, more than 64,000 troops and over 7,800 pieces of equipment are taking part, including more than 200 missile launch systems, over 140 aircraft, 73 surface ships, and 13 submarines, eight of which are strategic missile submarines.

The main objective of the exercises, the ministry explained, is to practice deterrence operations and assess personnel readiness. The drills also include coordination in the preparation and use of nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus. The ministry additionally announced planned test launches of ballistic and cruise missiles at Russian training ranges.

By Jeyhun Aghazada