Russia begins tactical nuclear exercises

Early morning on May 22 (Vietnam time), the Russian Defense Ministry announced that its forces have begun conducting phase 1 of an exercise using tactical nuclear weapons, also known as non-strategic nuclear weapons.

Russian military begins drills with Iskander missiles and other tactical nuclear weapons. Photo: BLOOMBERG

TASS news agency on the evening of May 21 quoted the Russian Defense Ministry as saying that the exercise took place in the Southern Military District. The first phase of the exercise focused on practicing the preparation and use of tactical nuclear weapons.

Russian forces conduct the first stage of tactical nuclear weapons exercises. Photo: TASS

Specifically, the missile forces will practice preparing to use the Iskander tactical missile system, while the air force will practice equipping air weapons, including the Kinzhal hypersonic missile, before moving to the patrol area during the exercise.

According to ABC, the exercise is taking place in the Southern Military District, which includes Russia's southern regions, including four regions of Ukraine that Russia has recently annexed. This is the first time Russia has publicly announced exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons.

The Russian Defense Ministry's announcement stressed that the exercise is aimed at ensuring readiness to defend Russia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in any situation. Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month ordered the military to prepare for tactical nuclear drills amid the escalating conflict in Ukraine.

CHI HANH

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/nga-bat-dau-tap-tran-hat-nhan-chien-thuat-post741015.html