Kazakhstan has launched the tactical peacekeeping exercise, Steppe Eagle-2011, at Iliski firing ground near the city of Almaty, Kazakhstan.

According to the Kazakh Defence Ministry, the Kazakh Army will be joined by forces from Lithuania, Kyrgyzstan, the US and UK in the joint exercise.

The ninth joint exercise will involve participation of over 1,400 military personnel along with 100 units of operational technical armament.

During the drills, troops from six armies will practice interaction, combat and interoperability.

The exercise will test the level of preparedness of troops to participate in peacekeeping operations in compliance with all international regulations.