Senior Russian military officer praises Chinese paratroopers

MOSCOW - A senior Russian military officer on Tuesday spoke highly of Chinese paratroopers, saying the combat preparation and readiness of Chinese airborne troops deserve the highest mark.

"Chinese comrades have made excellent preparations, (and) they are the real professionals," Vladimir Shamanov, commander of the Russian Airborne Troops, said during the ongoing International Army Games-2015 held in central Russia's Ryazan region.

According to Shamanov, the Chinese paratroopers have best performed in sky jumping and forced march competitions, outperforming their Russian counterparts in the heated competition.

Russia has planned to hold a series of joint military competitions this year. Till the end of the year, Russian troops are expected to conduct, with the participation of troops from its friendly countries, about 40 drills, including in the Arctic region and in the Black Sea.