MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin underscored the navy's pivotal role in protecting Russia's sovereignty and national security, as he oversaw its maneuvers, codenamed 'July Storm', during Russia's Navy Day celebrations.
"Our primary task is to ensure Russia's security and defend its sovereignty and national interests. The navy plays a crucial role in this mission, " Putin said.
The large-scale operational maneuvers, which commenced on July 23, are being conducted simultaneously across multiple regions, notably the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, as well as the Caspian and Baltic Seas, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence.
The 'July Storm' exercise involves over 150 warships and support vessels, 120 aircraft, 10 coastal missile systems, 950 units of military equipment, and more than 15, 000 personnel, the ministry said.