OREANDA-NEWS. March 14, 2011. The Minister briefed the President by telephone about implementation of his instructions on aiding Japan in the disaster relief efforts following the earthquake.

Mr Shoigu said that two Emergency Situations Ministry rescue teams departed for Japan on Sunday evening. The first team left on board an Il-76 aircraft from Ramenskoye Airport in the Moscow Region. As well as the 50 rescuers, the aircraft was carrying three rescue vehicles, and all of the necessary equipment for carrying out rescue work.

The second team of 25 rescuers, taking with them one rescue vehicle, flew from Khabarovsk on board a Mi-26 helicopter.

Mr Shoigu said that more rescuers and equipment are ready to be sent to Japan if the Japanese authorities request any further aid.