"Due to the remaining threat of incursions by international terrorists in Syria, our ships carrying Kalibr cruise missiles will be constantly deployed in the Mediterranean Sea," Putin said.

"The practice of distant sea campaigns and drills should continue", Russian President Vladimir Putin noted at a military meeting.

"Some 102 sea campaigns by Russia's ships and submarines are to take place," Putin added.

At the same time, Vladimir Putin noted that Russia would continue reinforcing the maritime part of its nuclear forces to increase the role of the Russian Navy in the country's nuclear deterrence.

March 13, 2018, saw the beginning of a Mediterranean mission by the Russian frigate Admiral Essen, which is equipped with Kalibr-NK cruise missiles.

During last year's mission, the warship launched cruise missiles from the Mediterranean Sea at the positions of the terrorist group ISIL in Syria.