Russia: Special Forces fight 'Islamic terrorists' in simulation drills

The Russian Special Forces conducted military drills in Tambov oblast, in south eastern Russia, Thursday. The aim of the drills was to eliminate 'militants' who were attacking a position under and imitation Islamic flag. The Russian troops had support from all-terrain vehicles and a GAZ-2975 "Tigr" infantry mobility vehicle. During the exercises some members of the Special Forces also boarded and jumped from a helicopter while others tested themselves on an assault course that included fires and rounds being fired nearby. The exercises were reportedly launched to test the country's response to the potential threat posed by a military incursion and follow Russia's recent intervention in Syria. Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted the danger of allowing militants to feel that they have 'succeeded' in Syria, stating that they will 'inevitably' return 'to their homelands and Russia as well' if this does take place. Putin said this in a statement made on September 30, the day the Russian Air Force began strikes on Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS, ISIL) positions in Syria.