MOSCOW, August 12. /TASS/. The Pacific Fleet's exercises underscore Russia’s robust deterrence capabilities, including nuclear deterrence, in response to the escalating threats emerging from the East. Alexander Stepanov, a military expert at the Institute of Law and National Security at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), conveyed this perspective to TASS.

He highlighted the rapid development of the military-industrial complex in countries such as the Republic of Korea and Japan, along with their expanding offensive weapons arsenals, which collectively heighten regional tensions.

"The Eastern region is becoming just as significant a strategic concern for Russia as the West," Stepanov asserted. "In this context, the Pacific Fleet maneuvers serve as Russia’s primary platform to demonstrate its deterrence capabilities, including nuclear options." He stressed that the Pacific Fleet’s submarine forces - comprising cruise missile carriers, Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles, and the Poseidon system - play a vital role in maintaining strategic stability in the region.

Furthermore, Stepanov pointed out Russia’s close cooperation with North Korea and China, with established mechanisms for joint strategic maneuvers involving deterrence assets. "This cooperation reflects a comprehensive understanding of the regional threats and militarization trends, which are being fueled by Pentagon activities," he noted.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Pacific Fleet’s flagship, missile cruiser Varyag, where he received a briefing from Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Viktor Liina regarding ongoing exercises in the Far East.