China
SCO troops mark 95th anniversary of founding of Russia´s Air Force
WATCH VIDEO
Source: CCTV.com | 08-14-2007 09:06
Special Report: 80th Anniversary of PLA |
Soldiers of the joint troops pay homage to the flag during the military parade in Chelyabinsk, Russia, August 12, 2007. A joint parade is held Sunday to mark the 95th anniversary of the founding of Russia's Air Force by the troops from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members, who are in Chelyabinsk for the "Peace Mission 2007" anti-terror drill. (Xinhua Photo)
The SCO's first military drill codenamed "Peace Mission 2007" continues in Russia. But, soldiers from the six member countries have taken time out to celebrate the 95th anniversary of Russia's Air Force.
The celebration took place at the Navigators Higher Military Aviation School in Chelyabinsk. Representatives of troops from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan were invited to attend the ceremony. Armed forces from the five countries and Russia are currently in Chelyabinsk for "Peace Mission 2007"-- a joint anti-terror military drill sponsored by the SCO.
Chinese military aircraft that are to take part in the drill are stationed at the aviation school. Officials say eight of China's fighter bombers and six IL-76 transport aircraft will be coordinating with Russia's SU-25 ground attackers during the exercise. After a few rounds of practice, the Russian contingent praised China's preparation work.
Admiral Vladimir Moltensky, Russia's gen. dir. of the drill, said, "Many may think that it's a very tough and complicated job for troops from different countries and armed forces to cooperate well. But I want to stress that we've gathered rich experiences from the 'Peace Mission 2005' joint drill, so there's no need to worry."
On Sunday, in its second phase, the drill held a decision-making exercise in a military base near the Russian Ural Mountains. The superior command approved decisions and then the battle command issued orders to the troops to carry out counter-terrorism actions. The second phase of the exercise started on August 11th and will last for six days.
The first phase of the drill took place in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region last Thursday.
It's estimated that 6,500 troops and 80 aircraft will take part in the joint exercise.
