MINSK, May 18 (Xinhua) -- Belarus has commenced a scheduled military training exercise focused on nuclear combat and support capacities, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said Monday.

The drill, aimed at enhancing the armed forces' readiness to employ modern weapons systems, including special munitions, will test the operational preparedness of units, equipment and specialized technical systems to carry out missions from unprepared territories across the country.

While units from Belarus's missile forces and air force are actively participating, a key task of the exercise is to assess capabilities to conduct nuclear strikes from dispersed, non-prepared locations, featuring stealth, long-range mobility, and precision targeting, said the ministry.

In close coordination with Russian military partners, the training will also focus on the delivery, handling and preparation of nuclear warheads for deployment.

The ministry emphasized that the exercise is a routine and planned part of the joint defense efforts of the Russia-Belarus Union State. It is not directed against any foreign country and does not pose a threat to regional security.