The CSTO has agreed on the details of three exercises planned in Russia.

Russia discussed the organization and conduct of three Collective Security Treaty Organization exercises—Interaction-2026, Search-2026, and Echelon-2026—the organization's press service reported.

The second staff talks took place from July 7 to 9. They focused on preparations for the command and staff exercise with the CSTO Collective Rapid Reaction Forces, "Interaction-2026," a special exercise with reconnaissance forces and assets, "Search-2026," and the logistics exercise, "Echelon-2026."

Representatives of interested ministries and agencies from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Tajikistan participated in the negotiations. Representatives of the CSTO Joint Staff and Secretariat also participated.

During the talks, the parties clarified and agreed on the plans for the upcoming exercises. Their objectives are aligned with those of the Center-2026 strategic command and staff exercise of the Russian Armed Forces.

Participants also reviewed the organization of exercise management, determined the composition of the training command bodies and units of the national contingents, agreed on the procedure for conducting practical activities, and discussed the organization of comprehensive support.

In addition, reconnaissance of the upcoming exercise areas was conducted at the Chebarkul training ground. The maneuvers are scheduled for September–October 2026.

The CSTO Collective Rapid Response Forces are designed to promptly respond to challenges and threats to the security of the organization's member states.

The CRRF comprises mobile units and permanent readiness military units of the armed forces of the CSTO countries. They are fully staffed and equipped with modern and compatible weapons, military equipment, and special-purpose hardware.

The Collective Rapid Response Forces also include special forces units. These include specialized units of the internal affairs agencies, police, security agencies, and special services, as well as authorized bodies responsible for emergency prevention and response.