Special weapons and tactics (SWAT) units of the Russian Airborne Force are learning how to use dog sleds in the Arctic regions, RIA Novosti reports, quoting the press service of the Russian Defense Ministry.

"Members of Airborne Force units involved in the exercise are learning how to use sleds for the first time and how to harness dogs for fast sustained movement. They are mastering this unusual transport system at their permanent bases. Paratroopers are being trained to control dog sleds because they will need them during special simulated evacuation missions in the sub-polar Arctic," the press service said in a statement.

Experts are currently training paratroopers on detecting dogsled's top dog, how to harness dogs one after another or in a fan-shaped pattern. Soldiers are also learning how to accelerate and stop their dog sleds and the specifics of dog breeds that pull sleds in the Arctic.

After completing their training course, paratroopers will be able to take part in a simulated search-and-rescue expedition and land on a drifting ice floe in the Arctic Ocean. The landing will be organized by the Russian Aerospace Force's military transport division and the Expedition Center of the Russian Geographical Society.