MOSCOW, August 3. /TASS/. The geography of the International Army Games, carried out on the Defense Ministry’s initiative, has been significantly expanded this year, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said Tuesday, adding that the Games will take span 11 countries. 

"Between August 22 and September 4, over 280 teams from 42 countries will display their combat training and their will for victory. This year, the competition will take place in 11 states," Shoigu said.

"This is the first time the competition will take place in Algeria, Vietnam, Qatar and Serbia," the Minister said.

The event will also include the traditional "Fan club," as well as festivals and master classes.

"Visitors and competitors will be able to visit the museum of the International Army Games, which will open at the beginning of the competition. Most of our colleagues note that this competition has become a unique platform for the perfection of combat proficiency and the popularization of the army and navy services," Shoigu said.

He noted that, for the second time, the games will take place simultaneously with the International Military Technical Forum. The Forum will involve expos and demonstrations, scientific and business programs, as well as protocol and cultural events.