Russia launches large-scale naval drill in Baltic Sea

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) – The Russian Navy's Baltic Fleet launched a planned military exercise in the Baltic Sea involving more than 20 naval vessels, 25 aircraft and helicopters and around 3,000 troops, the Defense Ministry said Tuesday.

The drill, coordinated with forces of the Northern Fleet and supported by aircraft from the Aerospace Forces as well as Moscow and Leningrad military districts, are aimed at maintaining operational readiness and practicing defense of naval bases in the region.

Participating forces include a frigate, corvettes, small missile and anti-submarine ships, minesweepers, and a range of support vessels.

“The crews will work on anti-submarine warfare, repelling attacks by unmanned boats, and perform live-fire exercises against sea and air targets,” the ministry said in a statement.

The statement did not provide any information about the duration of the exercise.