The Belarusian Ministry of Defense reported via its telegraph channel that joint tactical flight exercises will be conducted with Russia from January 16 to February 1. The announcement outlined that the training would bring together the aviation units of Belarus and the Russian Federation, elements that form part of the aviation component of the regional groupings involved in the joint security framework. The plan emphasizes the coordination between air forces and air defense units, ensuring synchronized operation across the participating states in this collaborative effort.
According to the statement, the exercises are scheduled for a two-week period beginning on January 16 and ending February 1, 2023, and will involve air operations across multiple airfields and ranges belonging to the Belarusian Air Force and Air Defense Forces. Officials stressed that the objective is to practice complex flight missions, airspace management, and the seamless integration of air tactics between the Belarusian and Russian forces. This approach aims to enhance readiness and interoperability within the allied aviation components while maintaining day-to-day operational coverage of Belarusian air defense duties.
The agency further noted that on January 8, the aviation element of the Russian Aerospace Forces arrived in Belarus to participate in the joint training. This movement marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral air cooperation and demonstrates the commitment of both nations to conduct coordinated activities within the framework of their mutual security interests. Observers are watching how this deployment will expand the capabilities of the air components and how it may influence regional defense postures in the near term.
Andrey Zhuk, a former Deputy Defense Minister of Belarus, has stated that a prepared group of troops stands ready to be deployed in tandem with the Russian Federation to defend the Union State. He emphasized that the troops have undergone extensive coordination and conducted live-fire drills and tactical exercises to validate procedures, including the execution of engineering tasks and the provision of first aid under combat conditions. Zhuk highlighted that emphasis was placed on the individual training of soldiers and officers to sustain high levels of readiness and to ensure rapid, effective responses during joint operations.
In summary, the planned joint exercises reflect a long-standing collaboration between Belarus and Russia aimed at enhancing air combat readiness, interoperability, and rapid mobilization capabilities. These activities underscore the commitment of both nations to maintaining secure regional air defense and the capacity to respond to evolving security challenges through well-coordinated training and rehearsal of critical flight and support missions.