China, Russia conclude joint naval drill

Beijing, April 27 (IANS) The Chinese and Russian navies announced Friday the conclusion of a six-day joint naval exercise that saw them focus on maritime defence.

Vice Admiral Ding Yiping, China's general director for the joint exercise, described the joint naval drill as a "complete success".

He said the two navies will further their efforts to have regular naval drills and deepen their cooperation, reported Xinhua.

A total of 16 surface ships, two submarines from the Chinese navy and seven Russian ships, led by the flagship Russian cruiser Varyag, participated in the war games.

The six-day manoeuvres focused on joint maritime air defence and the defence of marine traffic arteries, with exercises involving joint escorts, marine search and rescue operations, anti-submarine tactics and anti-hijacking tactics.

Rear Admiral Leonid Sukhanov, Russia's general director for the drill, said the two navies will further strengthen cooperation.