DUSHANBE, April 3, Asia-Plus - The battalion of Russian military base in Tajikistan began a three-day military exercise with practice shoot at the Lohur training ground in Tajikistan, some 30 kilometers southwest of Dushanbe, on Monday April 3, Asia-Plus has learned from Pavel Konev, a spokesman for the Russian military base in Tajikistan.

According to him, the purpose of the exercise is to rehearse coordination and interaction in combat missions against international terrorists.  The exercise involving 800 Russian servicemen, artillery, tanks, ground support aircraft and helicopters will last till April 5, according to the Russian military base spokesman.   

“The exercise is being conducted in interaction with sub-units of the Tajik Ministry of Defense (MoD),” said Mr. Konev, “Besides, a sub-unit of cadets of Tajik Military Institute is also taking part in the drill conducted in Lohur.” 

Commander of Russia ’s military base in Tajikistan , Colonel Aleksey Zavizyon, is in overall command of the ongoing war game, the source said.  

Tajikistan ’s President Emomali Rahmonov and Defense Minister Sherali Khayrulloyev are expected to observe the final stage of the drill.