The 'Ocean Shield-2023' exercise took place in the Pacific, Arctic, Baltic, and Caspian Seas from 23/7 to 27/7, under the command of navy commander-in-chief Alexander Moiseev, the Russian Defense Ministry announced.

The exercise involved over 150 naval vessels, 15,000 personnel, 120 aircraft, 10 coastal missile systems, and 950 specialized vehicles and equipment.

The Russian navy's "Ocean Shield-2023" exercise on 23/7. Video: Russian Defense Ministry

The exercise aimed to test the Russian navy's readiness for non-traditional combat missions and its ability to use precision long-range weapons and other modern technologies, including unmanned systems, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

Crews practiced deploying forces to combat zones, anti-submarine warfare, protecting designated areas, and securing economic activity zones. The exercise also included intercepting air, boat, and drone attacks, ensuring maritime safety, and striking sea targets and enemy formations.

Russia currently possesses the third-largest naval force globally, behind the US and China, according to Reuters. The Russian Black Sea Fleet has been a key element in joint attacks against Ukraine, using Kalibr cruise missiles launched from warships and P-800 Oniks anti-ship missiles.

However, the Russian navy has also suffered losses in the conflict with Ukraine, particularly the Black Sea Fleet. Ukrainian missile and drone attacks have destroyed or damaged several warships, resulting in Russia losing approximately 40% of its Black Sea force and relocating most of the fleet from the Crimean peninsula to the port of Novorossiysk.

Pham Giang (Reuters, Zvezda, Business Insider)