Russian assault units practiced a concealed advance through underground routes to reach the rear of a simulated enemy during the Center-2026 exercise. The maneuver was demonstrated on October 2 during the main phase of drills at the Chebarkulsky training ground, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

Under the exercise scenario, the troops had to cross the «gray zone» without being detected and approach an enemy strongpoint from an unexpected direction. One assault group moved through an underground water conduit, while another used a passage prepared in advance. The troops then emerged directly behind the defending force.

The assault was supported both from the air and on the ground. Strike drones were used against targets, while ground robotic systems equipped with combat modules carrying PKTM machine guns operated alongside the troops.

Training also focused on movement and combat in confined areas with limited visibility. Servicemen underwent advance preparation for such conditions, while their equipment was configured for operations along underground routes.

The Center-2026 strategic command-and-staff exercise runs from September 28 through October 3 and marks the final stage of the Russian Armed Forces’ training program this year. Its scenario focuses on military groupings responding to aggression in the Central Asian strategic direction. A separate part of the exercise is devoted to military security in the Caspian Sea zone.

The main events on October 2 are taking place at the Chebarkulsky training ground, with more than 6,000 servicemen involved. Russia is represented by 4,600 troops, while another 1,479 participants have arrived from foreign countries. They include 634 servicemen from contingents of the CSTO Collective Rapid Reaction Forces.

More than 600 pieces of equipment are involved in the exercise. These include 55 aircraft and helicopters, more than 500 unmanned aerial vehicles of various types, and over 50 robotic systems.