Watch: Video shows Russian aircraft and ships hunting submarines during “Ocean 2024” naval training

Russia's naval drill, the largest since the post-Soviet era, brings together more than 90 troops and 400 ships

On Wednesday (11), the Russian Ministry of Defense released stunning videos of aircraft and warships of the Northern Fleet participating in a simulation of hunting enemy submarines in the Barents Sea. The exercise is part of the “Ocean 2024” naval training, the largest in Russian history since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The event, launched by President Vladimir Putin, aims to test the readiness of the Russian armed forces in a vast naval operation that covers both the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, as well as strategic seas such as the Mediterranean, Baltic and Caspian, according to the CNN Brasil website.

The “Ocean 2024” naval training

The “Ocean 2024” exercise involves more than 90 thousand military personnel, a fleet of over 400 ships and 125 aircraft, including submarines, fighter jets and warships. The maneuvers took place in early September and are scheduled to continue until the 16th. These military simulations cover vast geographic areas and are part of a strategic effort by Russia to demonstrate its naval power and its ability to respond in conflict situations.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the exercise aims to improve the capabilities of the armed forces in detecting and neutralizing underwater and air threats, ensuring control of sea lanes in areas crucial to national security. The Northern Fleet, one of the most powerful in Russia, plays a vital role in this exercise, with its vessels and aircraft specialized in anti-submarine operations.

Hunting submarines in the Barents Sea

The video released by the Ministry of Defense highlights the intense activity in the Barents Sea, where Russian warships, equipped with advanced radar and sonar systems, mobilized to hunt simulated enemy submarines. Specialized aircraft also participated in the mission, using cutting-edge technologies to locate submarines hidden in the depths of the ocean.

The use of anti-submarine vessels is a crucial part of Russia's maritime defense strategy. These vessels are equipped with torpedoes, depth charges and missile systems that can destroy enemy submarines. In the Barents Sea, which borders the Arctic, this capability is even more important, as the region is home to some of the world's most strategic shipping routes, in addition to being a point of growing geopolitical interest due to the exploitation of natural resources.

geopolitical context

The “Ocean 2024” exercise occurs at a time of growing tensions between Russia and the West. President Vladimir Putin said Russia needs to be prepared for any scenario, citing Washington's provocations as a risk factor for global security. Putin was particularly critical of the United States for its plans to deploy short- and medium-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region, or that it considers it a direct threat to global stability.

The Pacific region in particular has been the scene of growing military rivalry between great powers. The deployment of US missiles in the region, according to Putin, could lead to an arms race, similar to what occurred during the Cold War. The Russian response, with massive military exercises such as “Ocean 2024”, is seen as a show of strength and a clear message that the country is ready to face any external threat.