Russia, NATO started naval exercise off Spain

31.05.2011 International naval exercise Bold Monarch-2011 (photo) which is attended by Russia's Black Sea Fleet (BSF) task unit started on May 30 near Spain, reported RIA Novosti referring to a spokesman for Russian Navy.

The exercise will last till June 9 at outer harbor of Cartagena port, Spain. Warships, aviation and submarines of 20 NATO countries take part in the Bold Monarch-2011 exercise, including the US, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, France, Norway, Greece, and Turkey.

"BSF task unit consisting of diesel submarine Alrosa, salvage tug Shakhter, mooring lighter KIL-158 and rescue ship Epron participates the exercise as well. Russian ships arrived in Cartagena on May 25; the planning conference was held prior to the exercise", said the official.

He pointed out that "newest air-portable search-and-rescue submersible Panther Plus is on board mooring lighter KIL-158; it is in inventory of all Russian fleets, including the Black Sea one. Cruise headquarters and exercise directors are on board rescue ship Epron".

According to the exercise scenario, Russian submarine Alrosa will imitate a distressed sub lying on the seabed in the exercise zone. NATO rescue units will evacuate the crew.

"In addition, a medical drill will be conducted on board rescue ship Epron. The crew will demonstrate Russian way of rendering help to submariners escaped the bottomed sub buoyantly and surfaced by rescue bell SK-64", added the interviewee.