Russia is sending two S-400 surface-to-air missile systems to Belarus. The weapons are being sent as part of military exercises next month, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

According to British media reports, the Ministry of Defense says that two S-400 battalions, which usually include eight anti-aircraft missile systems, are currently being transferred to Belarus by train from the Russian Far East.

Official Moscow has announced that 12 Su-35 fighter jets and one Panzer missile system will be deployed in Belarus.

Russian troops and equipment began arriving in Belarus this week to take part in the "Alliance Determination" military exercise, which will be held near Belarus' western border with NATO members Poland and Lithuania, and near its southern wing with Ukraine.