Russian and Serbian troops could hold joint tactical drills

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has proposed the holding of joint tactical drills in 2016 to his Serbian counterpart Bratislav Gasic.
Source: Tanjug, TASS, Sputnik Monday, August 17, 2015 | 12:57

The Serbian tank unit taking part in the Tank Biathlon at Alabino, near Moscow (Tanjug)

Shoigu presented his proposal during a meeting with Gasic, TASS reported.
This was announced by Shoigu's deputy, Anatoly Antonov, who commented on the results of Gasic's visit to Russia over the past weekend.

According to Sputnik, Antonov explained that this exercise of special airborne troops of the two armies should be held next year in Serbia. The previous such exercise was held last year.

Shoigu and Gasic also spoke about the upcoming exercise of land, airborne and air and space defense forces dubbed "Slavic Brotherhood 2015," to be held in September in Russia. Soldiers from Belarus will also take part.

Antonov noted that Serbian soldiers took part in International Army Games Tank Biathlon that ended on Sunday near Moscow, "which improved their combat readiness."

"It is no coincidence that Serbian tank units had better results this year compared to the previous, and won the bronze medal," Antonov has been quoted as saying by Sputnik, and adding that he hoped Serbia will in 2016 take part in other Army Games competitions.

TASS said the Russian official also stated that Serbian military personnel "will be training in Russian Defense Ministry’s academies."

"Russia has approved an application for training Serbian servicemen in Russia’s military educational institutions," Antonov said, commenting on the talks between Shoigu and Gasic.

The ministers discussed the Russian-Serbian military and technical cooperation and further strengthening of military relationship, as well as international security issues, Antonov said.