Russia’s Armed Forces trained “for a massive nuclear strike in response to a nuclear attack by an enemy,” as Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu claimed to Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Vladimir Putin, on Wednesday.
Footage, released by the Russian Ministry of Defence, shows the work of a Strategic Rocket Forces crew and the launch of the Yars mobile surface-to-air missile system at the Kura test site in Kamchatka. The work of the crew of the nuclear submarine Tula and the launch of the Sineva intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) were also demonstrated. In addition, the Tu-95MS strategic missile platform launched air-launched cruise missiles.
It is reported that the tasks envisaged during the strategic deterrence training exercise have been completed in full, with all the missiles hitting their targets, confirming their specified characteristics.
At the same time, NATO holds an annual nuclear deterrence training exercise “Steadfast Noon” in northwestern Europe. Drills take place from October 17 until October 30.
According to NATO, “Steadfast Noon” involves 14 countries and up to 60 aircraft of various types, including fourth- and fifth-generation fighters, as well as surveillance and refuelling planes.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on 13 October that the long-planned exercise ensures the safety, security and effectiveness of the alliance’s nuclear capabilities.
