Moscow, Russia said it was holding joint naval exercises with India in the Bay of Bengal, as the two countries bolster security ties.
The purpose of the exercise is to comprehensively develop and strengthen naval cooperation between Russia and India, Moscow's Defense Ministry said.
The drills will help the two navies "jointly counter global threats and ensure the safety of civilian shipping in the Asia-Pacific region," Moscow's Defense Ministry added.
They are planned to last until Wednesday and will involve ships from Russia's Pacific Fleet, including the Admiral Tributs anti-submarine destroyer, it said.
The United States has in the past voiced concern about India holding joint drills with Russia, noting that Moscow has been trying to expand its influence in the region.
Source: Qatar News Agency