Russia has begun a large-scale three-day nuclear military exercise involving ballistic and cruise missile launches, according to the country’s defence ministry.
The drills, which started on Tuesday, are designed to simulate how Russia’s nuclear forces would respond in the event of what Moscow described as “aggression” against the country.
Russian officials said about 64,000 personnel and nearly 7,800 military assets are taking part in the operation.
The exercise will involve rocket forces, long-range aviation units, the Northern and Pacific fleets, as well as troops from the Leningrad and Central military districts.
The ministry added that more than 200 missile launchers, 140 aircraft, 73 warships and 13 submarines including eight strategic nuclear submarines are participating in the drills.
The exercises will also extend to Belarus, where Russian tactical nuclear weapons are currently deployed.
According to Moscow, part of the training will focus on the use of those weapons during combat scenarios.
The announcement comes at a time of heightened global tension, with ongoing conflicts and growing concerns over military escalation between major world powers.
While Russia routinely conducts strategic military exercises, the scale of the latest drills and the involvement of nuclear-capable forces are likely to draw close international attention.
