Russia conducts major nuclear drills

May 19 (Reuters) - Russia on Tuesday begins three days of nuclear drills ​that will include the ​launch of ballistic and cruise missiles, ⁠the defence ministry said.

The exercises, ​involving 64,000 people and 7,800 pieces ​of military equipment, will rehearse "the preparation and use of nuclear forces in the event ​of aggression".

Russian rocket forces, the ​Northern and Pacific fleets, long-range aviation and ‌units ⁠from the Leningrad and Central military regions will take part, the ministry said.

Over 200 missile launchers, 140 ​aircraft, 73 ​surface ⁠ships and 13 submarines including eight strategic nuclear submarines ​will be involved.

The drills ​will ⁠also include training in how to use Russian tactical nuclear weapons deployed ⁠in ​Belarus, the ministry ​said.