3 Egyptian warships cross Turkey's Bosphorus to take part in drills with Russia in Black Sea

CAIRO – 15 November 2020: Al Arabiyah reported Sunday that three Egyptian warships have crossed the Bosphorus Strait on their way to take part in drills with Russian Naval Force in the Black Sea.

That is the first time the Bridge of Friendship joint naval exercise is taking place in the Black Sea as it used to be held in the Mediterranean. The 2020 drills will continue until the end of the year.

Egypt is contributing with Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate dubbed "Alexandria," Gowind-class corvette called "Fateh," and Ambassador MK III fast missile boat named "Mahmoud Fahmy."

The vessels of both Egypt and Russia will be accompanied by aircraft and will “work out joint tasks to protect sea routes from various threats," the Russian Defense Ministry said, as reported by Asia Times.

The exercise will include rocket and artillery fire from participating ships, and simulated inspections of suspicious vessels.