In an effort to increase its readiness level and demonstrate its combat capabilities, the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet is conducting the “July Storm” exercise, which has already included various launches of anti-ship and cruise missiles. The activities are taking place in the Sea of Japan and involve both warships and Bastion coastal defense systems, simulating a response to a large-scale enemy naval attack to assess the fleet’s readiness for such a scenario.
According to Russian media reports, the Russian Navy deployed vessels operating under the Primorye Flotilla of the Pacific Fleet, which, along with the aforementioned Bastion coastal batteries, launched a joint missile strike against a target area in the Sea of Japan representing enemy ships from a fictional country. The missile launches reportedly hit all designated targets with precision.
Further details from Russia highlight the participation of the missile cruiser Varyag in the operations. This vessel, the flagship of the Pacific Fleet, launched a Vulkan anti-ship missile at the simulated targets. In addition to the cruiser, the Russian Navy also deployed a fast-attack group consisting of the missile boats R-18 and R-20, equipped with Moskit cruise missiles. Meanwhile, coastal launchers used an Oniks cruise missile to neutralize another target from a coastal position in the Primorye region.
From a broader perspective, the July Storm exercises will continue until July 27 and are being directed by Admiral Alexander Moiseyev. The Russian Navy stated that the drills will extend beyond the Pacific Ocean to include the Arctic, as well as the Caspian and Baltic Seas, thus involving the fleets assigned to each of those regions. In concrete figures, the exercise includes the participation of 150 combat and support vessels, 120 aircraft, 10 coastal defense systems, and a total of 15,000 personnel.
Lastly, as these maneuvers take place near Japanese waters, the Chinese Navy has reportedly deployed three of its own vessels northeastward through the Tsushima Strait. Specifically, Tokyo reported the passage of two Luyang III-class guided missile destroyers supported by a Fuchi-class supply ship yesterday, raising questions about whether they intend to join the Russian Navy’s exercises. Meanwhile, the United States is currently participating in the Talisman Sabre 25 exercise hosted by Australia, while elements of its Air Force are engaged in Resolute Force Pacific 2025, highlighting the high level of military activity in the region.
*Images used for illustrative purposes only.
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