Strategic missile submarine crews are practicing their sub-ice navigation skills in the Arctic, Russian Defense Minister General Sergei Shoigu said at the ministry's board meeting, RIA Novosti reports.

"Strategic missile submarine crews are keeping their under-ice navigation skills current," Shoigu said. "Every year, Northern Fleet ships sail the waters of the Northern Sea Route."

The minister also said tactical military training continued on Arctic archipelagos.

"Arctic motor-rifle brigade personnel continue to train with new models of military hardware that are capable of enduring low temperatures," he said.

A few years ago, Russia embarked on an aggressive campaign to explore its northern territories and develop the Northern Sea Route. A package of measures, including military objectives, has been drawn up to protect Russia's interests in the Arctic.