Russia's
Yaroslav Mudry frigate will join the FRUKUS international naval drills
that will kick off in the Baltic Sea on Sunday, a Russian Defense Ministry
spokesman said. The annual naval drills, which traditionally involve
France, Russia, Britain and the United States, practice interoperability
for future joint operations.
Britain’s York destroyer, the United States’ USS Normandy
(CG-60) guided-missile cruiser and France’s destroyer De Grasse
will take part in the FRUKUS 2012 exercises. |
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The drills will consist of several stages including
joint maneuvering, repelling airstrikes and attacks of fast-speed boats,
artillery practice and ship rescue exercises.
Previously called RUKUS, the exercises were launched in 1988 to promote
dialogue between the Soviet Union, Britain, and the United States. The
name was changed to FRUKUS in 2003, when France formally joined the
group.
The Yaroslav Mudry is a Neustrashimy-class multi-purpose sea- and ocean-going
ship intended to engage surface and sub-surface targets. It is equipped
with powerful air defenses and is capable of rendering artillery support
to ground troops.
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