IRKUTSK, Russia - A Russian-Mongolian anti-terror exercise, Selenga 2012, was launched in Russia's Republic of Buryatia on Friday, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

Lasting until Oct 1 at Buryatia's Burduny training ground, the drill involves 250 Mongolian servicemen, and about 300 soldiers and officers from Russia's Eastern Military District.

The exercise involves planning joint anti-terror operations to provide security in the region, block and destroy illegal armed groups, evacuating local residents, and maintaining a state of emergency in the special operation area.

Selenga has been held annually since 2008 and was hosted by Mongolia last year.