Russian, NATO warships to hold several joint exercises

25.04.2011 Russian Navy warships will attend several large-scale naval exercises along with NATO countries within the next few months, reported RIA Novosti referring to the Navy spokesman.

"Since May till July Russian warships will participate in a number of international naval exercises in order to practice joint tasks with foreign warships", he said.

Black Sea Fleet task force consisting of diesel submarine Alrosa, mooring lighter KIL-158, rescue ship Epron, and salvage tug Shakhter will participate in the Bold Monarch-2011 large-scale rescue exercise to be conducted off Spain since May 25 till June 14.

Northern Fleet task force consisting of large ASW ship Admiral Chabanenko, salvage tug SB-406, and a Baltic Fleet supply vessel will take part in the FRUKUS-2011 four-lateral naval exercise to be conducted in the North Atlantic since June 20 till July 6, and then visit US Naval Station Norfolk. French, British, and American warships will take part in the FRUKUS exercise as well.

Baltic Fleet large ASW ship Minsk will attend the NATO's largest naval exercise in the Baltic – BALTOPS. This anti-terror maneuvers will be summarized during traditional Kiel Week.

At present, preparation of Russian ships for abovementioned activities is almost over.

"Russian Navy command believes that practical training of maritime cooperation makes possible to reach common views on response to new challenges and threats in the World Ocean", said the Russian Navy's official.