Article Posted on : - Mar 24, 2010

VLADIVOSTOK (BNS): Naval vessels from Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet begun a series of anti-submarine warfare drills in the Sea of Japan on Wednesday.

The sea exercise involves a series of search-and-destroy missions, simulated torpedo attacks and live-fire drills with on-board artillery and air defense systems, RIA Novosti reported.

The warships taking part in the drill include Admiral Tributs and Admiral Vinogradov anti-submarine destroyers along with diesel-powered submarines, Pacific Fleet spokesman Capt. 1st Rank Roman Martov said.

The exercises will culminate with a "battle" between the destroyers and submarines, when the surface ships attempt to thwart "a surprise attack from the deep," the official was quoted as saying by the news agency.

The Pacific Fleet comprises of one missile cruiser, five destroyers and 19 submarines. It also includes coastal combatants such as corvettes and patrol ships, mine warfare vessels, support and logistic ships and light amphibious ships.