Nuclear Threat: Strategic Exercises and 24-Hour Military Combat Readiness of russia

russia is launching large-scale exercises of its strategic nuclear forces (SNF) probably because of the visit of U.S. President Joe Biden to Europe planned for 20-22 February. The increase of nuclear blackmail is aimed at weakening the international support to Ukraine and disrupting of the visit of U.S. President Joe Biden to Europe.

The preparation of the strategic nuclear forces components for the launch of sea- based and land-based ballistic missiles, as well as air-launched cruise missiles has been confirmed by the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

Besides, in the framework of preparation for the exercises, the MONOLIT centralized combat control system of russian armed forces was tested. In particular, the combat and control systems were tested, the divisions and weapons of the strategic nuclear forces were put on the high level of alert. The crew of ballistic missile submarine was given a combat order to reach the launch area. Twenty-four-hour combat readiness of SNF is maintained.

Also, an auxiliary control center for the long-range aviation command was deployed at tambov air base.

It is necessary to add that last year russian federation conducted nuclear deterrence exercises twice, the first set of exercises took place a few days before the full-scale invasion to Ukraine, and the second – 17– 30 October.

According to the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine