Center-2019 involves 128,000 personnel and more than 20,000 pieces of equipment. (Photo: TASS)

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that the drills are defensive and are not directed against third countries. During the week the Russian army and servicemen of seven more states will "neutralize" the terrorist threat in Central Asia.

The main theme of the drills is the use of a coalition army group in the fight against international terrorism and in providing military security in Central Asia. Servicemen from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, China and Pakistan are taking part in the drills.

According to the Russian defense ministry, Center-2019 officially includes 128,000 personnel, 20,000 pieces of equipment and weapons, 600 aircraft and helicopters, and 15 warships.