MOSCOW, December 22 (RIA Novosti) - Russian paratroopers will participate in three joint military exercises with foreign countries in 2006, Commander of the Russian Airborne Troops said Thursday.

"We have planned two joint exercises with NATO and India for 2006," Colonel General Alexander Kolmakov said. "In addition, we will conduct joint maneuvers with Uzbekistan and a series of international exchanges with foreign paratroopers."

According to the general, the joint exercises with NATO have been scheduled for September and those for India have been slated for August. Both maneuvers will be held in Russia.