Two Russian KA-27 Helix helicopters prepare to land on the flight deck of the USS Belleau Wood (LHA 3) on Aug. 17, 1996, during Exercise Cooperation From the Sea ''96, off the coast of Vladivostok, Russia. U.S. Navy and Marine Corps units of the 7th Fleet and Russian Federation Navy units are conducting the exercise near the port city of Vladivostok, Russia. The purpose of exercise is to improve interoperability with Russian military forces in conducting disaster relief and humanitarian missions. Personnel exchanges and training will promote cooperation and understanding between the U.S. and Russian Federation Naval Forces. The landing marks the first time Russian helicopters have landed aboard a U.S. Navy ship as part of this annual exercise.