MOSCOW, June 5 (RIA Novosti) - Two Russian ships are to take part in NATO-led exercises in the Baltic Sea, a spokesman for the Russian Navy said on Thursday.
The Baltops-2008 exercises, held within the framework of the NATO Partnership for Peace Program, will take place on June 9-20. The fleets of Russia and 13 NATO members will take part in exercises aimed at improving mutual understanding and interoperability.
The Russian ships involved are the Nyeustarshimy (Indomitable) and the Kaliningrad.
"During the exercises, Russian Navy ships and those of 13 NATO member states will perform tasks including crisis solving, assisting ships in distress, and evacuating non-combatants. The ships will also undertake firing practice," Captain 1st Rank Igor Dygalo said.
The Baltops (Baltic Operations) exercises have been organized annually by the United States since 1994.
