The Russian president has turned to his close ally Sergei Shoigu, former Emergencies Minister, after the Defence Minister was engulfed in a corruption scandal.
Sergei Shoigu says 'utter nonsense' that army is 'total wreck'.
Permanent patrols commence led by the heavy nuclear-powered guided-missile cruiser Pyotr Velikiy.
Society’s president Sergei Shoigu - Russian defence minister - even hinted at possibility of cloning during annual meeting.
The manoeuvres involved around 160,000 troops, 5,000 tanks, 130 combat aircraft and 70 warships.
Current president of Sakha-based company leaves after 'difficult' relationship with senior officials in Moscow.
Military tests in minus 30C to check performance of equipment and personnel in toughest of conditions.
Women want to serve their country, says deputy defence minister Nikolai Pankov.