In accordance with the combat readiness plan for 2016, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces are holding large-scale operational and tactical exercises involving all types of troops.

The exercises is being conducted under the supervision of Defense Minister Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov will last till June 24, the Defense Ministry told local media.

The exercise involves about 25,000 servicemen, more than 300 tanks and armored combat vehicles, more than 100 rocket artillery launchers, up to 40 military aircraft and more than 30 air defense systems, ships of naval forces and special forces units.

Military ranges located in the frontal zone, and in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, as well as the Azerbaijani sector of Caspian Sea set up as exercise areas.

The main objective of the exercises is to improve the skills of command of formations and military branches in command and control and combat systems, as well as improving coordination and interoperability of combat elements in difficult conditions of modern combined arms battle.

Taking into account strong defense system of hypothetical enemy, the exercise will be conducted with the extensive use of new technological means and weapons available in service.

The exercises will also test the ability of troops to bring them to the highest level of combat readiness and carrying out of actions for their regrouping, as well as issues of military and logistical support.

One of the phases of an exercise will include combat shootings.