Over 65,000 troops, some 5,500 combat vehicles involved in Russian combat readiness test

Over 65,000 military servicemen and about 5,500 items of weapons and military hardware will be involved in an ongoing comprehensive surprise combat readiness test of the Russian Central Military District forces, says Valery Gerasimov, the chief of staff of the Russian armed forces.

"Over 65,000 troops, about 5,500 weapon units and vehicles, over 180 planes, and about 60 helicopters will be involved in the test," Gerasimov said at a conference with the Russian Defense Ministry command staff on Saturday.

The maneuvers are designed to test the training level of the troops in performing their duties through shooting practice, control exercises, the use of aircraft and airborne drops, Gerasimov said.

Surprise drills begin in Russia's Central Military District>>>

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