Russia deploys 10 warships in the Arctic Sea

Surface ships and submarines of the Russian Navy's Northern Fleet began manoeuvres today in the Barents Sea, in the Arctic Ocean, at a time of high international tension over Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.
 
"The Northern Fleet began planned manoeuvres with a grouping of mixed assault forces to resolve crisis situations in the Arctic," the navy's press service was quoted as saying by the Interfax news agency.
 
According to the Northern Fleet, the exercises "involve more than 10 surface ships and submarines, as well as aviation and anti-aircraft forces".
 
"The exercises will last until the weekend," the Russian command added.
 
The nuclear-powered missile cruiser "Pyotr Veliki", the flagship of the Northern Fleet, will take part in the exercises.
 
"Within the framework of the exercises, comprehensive defensive missions will be practised, as well as containment of a virtual enemy in the Barents Sea, and repelling attacks on Russian islands and coastal areas in the Arctic," he added.
 
The exercises include target practice with naval artillery and missile systems against surface, submarine and air targets in the Barents Sea.
 
"The naval exercise areas will be closed to civilian shipping and flights," the Northern Fleet said.