Russia's Baltic Fleet starts week-long exercise

Russia's Baltic Fleet has launched a week-long scheduled exercise, the navy press service said on Monday according to RIA Novosti.

It said the exercise, which will last through September 22, involves over 20 warships and more than 10 support and auxiliary vessels, as well as 15 fixed and rotary winged aircraft.

The exercise is aimed at honing the battle skills of naval, air force, air-defense and coast guard units, the press service said.

It added that the exercise would involve missile test launches on coastal and aerial targets, precision bombing, artillery and other drills.

The exercise is under the general supervision and command of Vice Admiral Viktor Mardusin, commander of the Baltic Fleet.