The first phase of joint exercises between the Russian and Syrian air forces, along with electronic warfare units from both countries, has commenced to assess the effectiveness of Russian air defense systems in the country. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated, "The Russian air force is conducting the first phase of joint exercises with the Syrian air force, focusing on managing the airspace of Syria and verifying the effectiveness of the air defense system of the Russian forces." Electronic warfare units are also participating in the exercises to prepare for a joint defense against hypothetical air raids. The joint maneuvers in Syria will continue until mid-July.