President Vladimir Putin marked Russia’s Navy Day by overseeing large-scale military exercises, “July Storm,” highlighting the navy’s vital role in defending national sovereignty.
The drills, involving over 150 vessels, 120 aircraft, and 15,000 personnel, are being held across multiple regions, including the Pacific and Arctic. Putin said the exercises draw on lessons from the Ukraine conflict and aim to boost combat readiness, according to Xinhua.
He also announced plans to upgrade five Marine brigades into divisions to strengthen naval capabilities.
Due to security concerns, the traditional St. Petersburg naval parade was canceled, Xinhua reported.
