Moscow, Aug 1 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The Russian, American and Canadian air forces will hold a joint anti-terrorism exercise Aug 8-11, a top Russian official said Monday.

The Russian Air Force and NORAD – the US and Canadian joint air defence command – will take part in the second edition of the exercises, said Igor Muginov, commander-in-chief of the Eastern military district.

The first Russian-NORAD joint anti-terrorism drills – dubbed Vigilant Eagle – took place in 2010.

‘The main aim of the drills is to improve the Russian Air Force’s and NORAD’s capabilities for fighting terrorism in the air,’ he said.

The exercises will include AWACS (airborne early warning and control) and refuelling aircraft, as well as combat aircraft, he added.