This is the moment Russia shows of its air force’s strength as fighter jets take off in unison and swarms of helicopters fly over cities in preparation for a Victory in Europe air show.
The rehearsal for the Victory in Europe parade took place in the city of Kaliningrad in the Russian region of the same name, located between Poland and Lithuania.
In the video, Russian fighter jets can be seen taking off and flying in formation during the rehearsal.
Helicopters flying in formation are then filmed moving over the city along with jets releasing black trails.
The rehearsals for the parade, set to take place on 9th May, began in March and Russian President Vladimir Putin said the military show of strength will only take place in the air because of coronavirus.
Putin said: “We will celebrate our holy Victory Day respecting the self-isolation regime and safety requirements. Despite everything, the whole country will do it all together. This day and its spiritual power are in our hearts forever.”
The Russian Ministry of Defence in a statement: “The flight altitude of military vehicles ranged from 150 to 300 metres (492 to 984 feet) at a speed of 160 to 550 kph (99 to 340 mph).
“Su-27 fighters and Su-30SM multipurpose fighters, Su-24M front-line bombers, Mi-24 and Mi-8 attack and transport-combat helicopters, Ka-27 and KA-27PS naval anti-submarine and search-and-rescue helicopters will take part in the air parade.”
The ministry said another two rehearsals are planned for 30th April and 7th May.
The planned Victory Parade in Moscow’s Red Square and Immortal Regiment marches will reportedly take place when it is safe to do so.
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Story By: Gheorghi Caraseni, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News
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