Moscow, May 20 (V7N) — Russia has begun a major three-day military exercise to test its strategic nuclear forces, as tensions remain high with Ukraine and Western nations.
The Russian Defense Ministry said the exercise began on Tuesday (May 19) and will continue for three days, focusing on ensuring the readiness and rapid deployment of strategic nuclear weapons in response to any potential external threat.
Moscow released video footage on Wednesday (May 20) showing missile launches and coordinated military operations as part of the drill.
According to the ministry, ballistic and cruise missile tests are being conducted during the exercise. The operation involves more than 64,000 personnel from land-based strategic missile forces, naval fleets, and the air force.
The drill also includes more than 200 strategic missile launchers, along with aircraft, fighter jets, strategic bombers, warships, and submarines. Officials said around 73 warships and 13 submarines—eight of them nuclear-powered strategic submarines—are participating.
The exercise is part of Russia’s ongoing effort to demonstrate its nuclear readiness amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and strained relations with Western countries.
Moscow said the drill is aimed at ensuring operational coordination and rapid response capability across its strategic defense forces.
END/SMA/AJ
