Central Asia

Surprise check assesses possibility to form air force/air defense group in Central Asian strategic sector - Shoigu

A new surprise check began on May 25 on the orders from the Supreme Commander of the Russian Armed Forces, Defense Minister Gen. of the Army Sergei Shoigu has said.

"The surprise check is assessing the possibility of the rapid formation of an air force and air defense group in the Central Asian strategic sector and the ability of this group to deter massive missile and air strikes of a simulated enemy," the minister said.

Air force and air defense troops of the Central Military District reinforced with formations and military units of the Western and Southern Military Districts, Long-Range Aviation and transport aircraft are undergoing the surprise check, the added.