MOSCOW, March 28. /TASS/. Over 40 warships, including 18 most advanced surface combatants, and also 25 aircraft and helicopters will be involved in the Main Naval Parade in St. Petersburg this year, Russian Defense Minister Army General Sergei Shoigu said on Wednesday.

"This year, we plan to involve 41 warships, including 18 most advanced combat ships. One of them is the small missile ship Uragan whose construction was completed in 2018. Also, 25 aircraft and over 4,000 servicemen will be involved in the event," the defense minister told the ministry’s board meeting.

On the Russian president’s instructions, the first Main Naval Parade took place in Russia’s modern history last year and this event will now be held annually, Shoigu said.

"This event is called upon to revive the country’s glorious maritime traditions, show the strength and the power of the Russian Navy and its readiness to perform a wide range of missions in any areas of the World Ocean," the defense minister stressed.

Last year, along with warships, boats, submarines and aircraft making part of the Russian Navy, the Main Naval Parade showed off the most advanced vessels arriving for the Navy, Shoigu noted.

"This helped demonstrate the achievements of domestic shipbuilding and the high level of maritime skills and combat training of the Navy’s sailors," the minister stressed.

"I have no doubts that the event will become an unforgettable occasion and draw the attention of a large number of spectators," Shoigu said.