Russia Starts Three-Day Strategic Nuclear Forces Drill Involving 65,000 Troops
Russia began a three-day strategic nuclear forces drill across the country on May 19, 2026, aimed at testing missile launches and demonstrating the readiness of its strategic forces.[1]
The Defense Ministry said the exercise involves more than 65,000 soldiers, 7,800 pieces of equipment and weapons, and over 200 missile launchers.[1] Aircraft, surface ships, submarines and nuclear submarines will take part, and Russia said it plans to test-launch ballistic and cruise missiles during the drills.[1] Moscow said the drills will also cover joint training and the use of nuclear weapons deployed in Belarus, including the Oreshnik nuclear-capable missile.[1]
The exercises follow the February 2026 collapse of the New START treaty and recent Russian tests of a new long-range nuclear-capable missile, developments Moscow cited as reasons for the drills.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- From May 19-21, 2026, Russia is conducting nuclear forces drills across the country, the Defense Ministry announced.
- The exercise involves more than 65,000 soldiers, 7,800 pieces of equipment and weapons, and over 200 missile launchers.
- Aircraft, surface ships, submarines and nuclear submarines will participate, and Russia plans to test-launch ballistic and cruise missiles during the drills.
- Moscow said the drills also address joint training and use of nuclear weapons deployed in Belarus, including the Oreshnik nuclear-capable missile.
- The drills follow the February 2026 collapse of the New START treaty and recent Russian tests of a new long-range nuclear-capable missile.
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