Russian forces are conducting drills involving Yars mobile nuclear missile launchers, marking the second such exercise in less than a month, according to Russian media reports. The drills are taking place in the Volga river basin, approximately 700 kilometers (435 miles) east of Moscow.
The Interfax news agency reported that missile launcher crews were set to move over 100 kilometers (62 miles) to practice camouflage and deployment techniques. This follows similar exercises conducted in early July in at least two different regions.
These recent drills come less than two months after Russia carried out tactical nuclear weapons deployment exercises in collaboration with Belarus, an ally. The Kommersant newspaper reported that the Yars missile systems, equipped with multiple warheads, can strike targets up to 11,000 kilometers (6,835 miles) away. These systems can be mounted on truck carriers or deployed in silos.
Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has conducted numerous military exercises independently and with other countries, including China and South Africa. Additionally, military training with Belarus has intensified, with a series of comprehensive drills being carried out.
The continuation of these military exercises underscores the ongoing tensions and strategic maneuvers in the region amidst the conflict in Ukraine.
Melissa Enoch
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