MOSCOW, September 29 (RIA Novosti) - More than 250 marines from the Caspian Flotilla have begun emergency parachute-jumping drills, according to the Russian Southern Military District's press service.
"Air assault units of the Caspian Flotilla marine troops have begun parachute jumping drills as part of the fall season's airborne training. The personnel are practicing jumping with a parachute, actions in case of emergency situations in the air and landing on different surfaces at a training facility with the help of parachute simulators," the press service said.
The marines are then to proceed to carrying out jumps out of Mi-8 helicopters at different times of day and practice assembling upon landing. They will also conduct subversive operations at important objectives of the simulated enemy.
More than 250 marines will take part in the drills, with 50 of them carrying out parachute jumps for the first time.
The Caspian Flotilla, stationed in Russia's Astrakhan, comprises the Southern Military District's maritime defense units. The flotilla ensures the protection of Russian interests in the Caspian Sea region by carrying out anti-terrorist activities, securing trade routes and oil fields.
The Caspian Flotilla comprises several brigades and divisions of ships and units of coastal troops.