Russian Navy open to have joint exercises with PHL counterparts

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Russian Navy open to have joint exercises with PHL counterparts

The Russian Navy is more than willing to show and demonstrate the use of its various combat systems to its Filipino counterparts once an agreement is inked allowing the joint training of Philippine and Russian maritime forces.

This was disclosed by Russian Pacific Fleet flotilla deputy commander Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov when asked what benefits the Philippines can get training with them.

"Maybe in the future, we'll have exercises with your (and we'll teach you) maneuvering and use of combat systems," he added.

Also, when the proper time comes, Mikhailov said Russia, the Philippines, China and Malaysia can participate in one big naval exercise in the South China Sea.

He added that this is possible as all the above-mentioned countries are concerned with the safety and security of the region.

Mikhailov made this statement during the sidelights of Tuesday's official welcoming ceremonies for Udaloy-class destroyer/large anti-submarine ship, Admiral Tributs and the Boris Chilikin-class fleet oiler, Boris Butoma, which arrived Monday night at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila.

The former is the head of the Russian naval delegation which is on a six-day goodwill visit to the country which will end on Saturday.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952539