Russia’s Defense Ministry said the Pacific Fleet began large-scale military exercises on August 4 in the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, and waters of the northwest Pacific. According to ChainCatcher, the drills involve about 60 surface ships, submarines, and support vessels, around 30 aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned systems, and more than 13,000 personnel.

The exercises are aimed at testing fleet commanders’ ability to direct force groupings within their area of responsibility and handle unconventional combat tasks.