Lt. Col. Vladimir Drik said Tu-160 Blackjack and Tu-95 Bear-H strategic bombers were test launching cruise missiles and dropping precision guided bombs at the Pemboi test range.

He did not say what types of missiles were involved, but a Russian deputy defense minister previously said a new long-range missile would soon enter service with the Air Force.

The launches are part of a command-and-staff exercises supervised by Maj. Gen. Pavel Androsov, long-range aviation commander, and are due to last until March 20.

Drik said a total of six warplanes were taking part in the drills.