The first marine regiment was set up in the country 301 years ago under the decree of Peter the Great. It included the best soldiers from the Baltic fleet. This year its military base Baltiysk invited British marines to celebrate.

Russian naval infantrymen once distinguished themselves defending Sevastopol from Turkish and Anglo-French troops over one hundred years ago.

This time Baltiysk marines are treating their British counterparts as dear guests. The Russians are demonstrating their expertise: drills and exercises that take up most of their time AND training facilities.

This parachute jumping training machine is called a “crocodile”. Only physically fit soldiers can handle it – the guests from the UK are impressed, saying that they don't have such a device. “It's Russian. It's really nice, very interesting” they said.

Russian officers say naval infantrymen carry out most difficult missions during international military exercises. Marines from other countries have more than once applauded their Russian colleagues at their landing under extreme conditions.

Next year Russian naval infantrymen are planning a visit to the British port of Plymouth. In the meantime, Russian black berets will be getting ready for other international drills.