Russia’s Armed Forces are holding drills from May 19 to 21 to practice the preparation and use of nuclear forces under the threat of aggression, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The exercises involve the Strategic Missile Forces, the Northern and Pacific Fleets, Long-Range Aviation Command, and selected units from the Leningrad and Central military districts.

According to the ministry, the drills are designed to practice the work of command and operational staff during the preparation and implementation of measures aimed at deterring a potential adversary. The military will also assess the readiness of command bodies, troops, and forces assigned to missions intended to prevent aggression.

A separate focus will be placed on coordination between military command bodies, formations, and units. During the exercises, they will practice command organization, coordination of actions, and comprehensive support while carrying out assigned missions. The capabilities of the participating forces to complete their tasks will also be evaluated.

The practical phase includes bringing several nuclear-force formations and units to readiness for mission execution, along with the support measures required for those actions. Ballistic and cruise missile launches are planned against training ranges on Russian territory.

More than 64,000 servicemen and over 7,800 pieces of weapons, military, and special equipment will take part in the drills. The hardware includes more than 200 missile launchers, over 140 aircraft, 73 surface ships, and 13 submarines. Eight of the submarines are strategic missile carriers.

The exercises will also include practice related to the joint preparation and use of nuclear weapons located on the territory of Belarus.