TEHRAN (Tasnim) � Iranian commandos attending the ongoing International Army Games 2016 in Russia came third in their group in the first round of �Elbrus Ring� on Thursday.





The Iranian servicemen claimed the third place after accomplishing seven special tasks and gaining 3,717 points, the official website of Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported.

Representatives of Russia and China finished first and second in the group by scoring 6,820 and 4,219, respectively.

Kazakhstan ranked 4th with 3,703 points.

Participants in the contest are to accomplish 14 special tasks.

The International Army Games kicked off in Russia on Saturday with over 3,000 military personnel from 20 countries participating in the Olympic-style military drills.

The annual event began with a tank biathlon competition and would continue until August 13.

Unlike previous years, this year�s competition is taking place in two countries -Russia and Kazakhstan- and includes 23 events in field, air and marine training.

According to the Russian defense ministry, the competition features 121 teams from Russia and 19 other countries, representing Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. In addition, 11 other countries have sent over their representatives to observe the competitions, which test the combat readiness of tanks, fighter jets, snipers and many other disciplines.

By Tasnim News Agency