Russian army aviation crews destroyed a simulated enemy and carried out a tactical airborne landing during the Center-2026 strategic command-and-staff exercises in Tajikistan, Russia’s Central Military District said.

The drills took place at the Lyaur training range in Tajikistan as part of the practical phase of the exercises, according to TASS.

The crews operating Mi-8 multi-purpose helicopters and Mi-24 attack helicopters from Russia’s 201st Guards Military Base practiced engaging a simulated enemy and deploying tactical airborne troops. The crews approached the target at extremely low altitude before acquiring the target and conducting a simulated strike against a concentration of enemy personnel using unguided aviation rockets and 30-mm aircraft guns.

The helicopters then carried out an anti-missile maneuver while deploying flares designed to counter a possible simulated threat from portable air-defense systems.

During the final stage, an Mi-8 helicopter deployed a tactical airborne unit under the cover of Mi-24 attack helicopters. The maneuver was intended to provide an element of surprise and enable simulated strikes against the rear of the opposing force.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said the 201st Guards Military Base, stationed in Tajikistan, is Russia’s largest military facility outside the country.

The base is located in Dushanbe and Bokhtar and includes motorized rifle, tank, artillery and reconnaissance units, as well as air-defense, chemical, biological and radiological protection, and communications units.

The Center-2026 exercises are being conducted across several training areas and involve Russian forces and military contingents from partner countries.