A joint Russia-Kyrgyzstan tactical exercise, Center-2026, has begun in Balykchy, in Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region, according to the Kyrgyz Defense Ministry’s press service.

According to the ministry, the opening ceremony was held at military unit No. 20636. It was attended by the exercise commander, Colonel Almazbek Kozhoshev; the senior officer of the military contingent of the Russian Armed Forces and deputy commander of the 201st Military Base, Lieutenant Colonel Dmitry Lakeev; and Gulnara Kukeeva, chief of staff of the Balykchy City Hall, 24.kg reported.

Up to 500 servicemen are taking part in the drills. The exercise involves up to 100 units of weapons and military equipment, FPV combat drones and military aviation from both countries.

The joint tactical exercise is being held from August 11 to 17 as part of bilateral cooperation between the Defense Ministries of Kyrgyzstan and Russia.