The Task Force included the "Samum", surface-effect missile launcher, the small Nanuchka III-class missile ship, the "Shtil" and two Tarantul III-class missile corvettes, the R-109 and the R-239.
The formation has successfully hit a simulated enemy force. According to the Russian ministry, twenty warships and twenty planes and helicopters from the Southern Military District participated in the mission.
The exercise took place on 4 last July. On the same day, four NATO warships entered the Black Sea to take part in the international Breeze-2014 exercise.
At the Breeze-2014, which will end on July 13th, the naval forces of the US Navy and of Bulgaria, Greece, Romania and Turkey are participating.
Moscow, meanwhile, is waiting to upgrade its fleet with the two French Mistral class helicopter carriers (pictured). The Russian deputy defense minister, Yuri Borisov, joined by Ria Novosti, expects France to deliver the projects and all the technical specifications of the ships so as to guarantee the maintenance of the boats.
The United States opposed the sale of French ships but, despite pressure, Paris confirmed the 1,6 billion dollar contract, already paid by Moscow, signed in the 2011.
Vladivostok, the first "Mistral" class assault helicopter carrier, will be delivered within the year. Sevastopol, on the other hand, will be completed by 2015.
The ships are able to carry 16 helicopters, four landing craft, 70 armored vehicles and 450 soldiers. The Russian Mistrals will become part of the Pacific Fleet.
Franco Iacch
(photo: Russian Fed. MoD archive)
