As Mr Putin came to the pier in Severomorsk, where the heavy missile-bearing submarine cruiser Arkhangelsk was moored, the commander of the Northern Fleet guard of honour company reported to him as Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces. The Russian anthem was then played and Mr Putin greeted the crew.
Mr Putin then went to a tent on the pier to see samples of naval uniforms and submarine food rations.
After embarkation, Captain 1st Rank Vladimir Volkov, Commander of the Arkhangelsk, reported to the President that the vessel was ready for departure.
Mr Putin chaired a meeting on board the Arkhangelsk, during which he was informed in detail about plans for an ensuing army and naval strategic staff exercise. Defence Minister Sergei Ivanov, Admiral Vladimir Kuroyedov and Alexander Rukshin, Chief of the Main Operational Directorate of the General Staff, were attending.
The Arkhangelsk took part in a strategic command-and-staff exercise involving the Northern Fleet, the Strategic Missile Troops and the Space Forces.