Russia has launched massive naval drills involving 150 ships, 15,000 troops, aircraft, drones, and missile systems across the Arctic, Pacific, Baltic, and Caspian seas to test combat readiness.

Russia has kicked off one of its biggest naval exercises of the year, involving more than 150 warships and 15,000 military personnel. The large-scale drills, called July Storm, began on 23 July and will run until 27 July, covering waters in the Pacific, Arctic, Baltic, and Caspian seas.

The exercise is designed to test how prepared the navy is for unexpected situations, including the use of long-range weapons, drones, and other high-tech systems. According to the defence ministry, the drills will include submarine hunting, air defence operations, and protecting sea lanes and economic zones.

Crews will also practise defending against enemy drones, unmanned boats, and missile strikes, while simulating attacks on enemy naval forces. More than 120 aircraft and 10 coastal missile systems are also involved.

The exercise is being led by Admiral Alexander Moiseev, Russia’s navy chief.

Despite recent setbacks during the conflict in Ukraine, Russia still commands one of the largest naval forces in the world ranked third globally after China and the United States.

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