Russia, Belarus vow to ''reinforce'' regional security: Ivanov

Moscow, June 25 (UNI) Russia and Belarus resolved to strengthen the operational capacity of their joint forces in the region, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Ivanov has said.

''The Union Shield-2006 exercise has without a doubt been a serious test for the Belarusian-Russian joint regional force and its ability to accomplish the tasks assigned to it,'' Mr Ivanov said at a troop review ceremony after the joint exercise (June17-25) at the Obuz-Lesnovsky training range, in Belarus.

He said joint efforts were needed to counter modern challenges and threats to international peace, as well as to ensure stability and security in the region.

''Russia and Belarus will continue to strengthen the operational capacity of their East-European joint force by conducting such exercises on a regular basis,'' he added.

The command and staff exercise involved a total of 8,800 servicemen, of which about 7,000 represented Belarus.

Russia's 1,800-strong force included units of the 20th Army of the Moscow Military District, alongside air force and air defence units.

Russia deployed strategic bombers, Su-24M Fencer tactical bombers, Su-27SM Flanker fighters, two new Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopters and a modernized A-50 Mainstay AWACS plane.

The joint exercise also involved 40 tanks, 180 armoured infantry carriers, 140 anti-tank guided missiles and 30 multiple launch rocket systems.

''One more step has been taken in the strengthening of the Russian-Belarusian combat alliance and the development of cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries,'' Mr Ivanov said.

UNI XC PA KN2017