The war games will begin on February 3rd.

Ireland’s Department of Transport has issued an official Marine Warning ahead of plans by Russia to hold military exercises 240km off the coast of Cork. It is believed that exercises will last for five days.

The Russian Federation has informed Ireland that the exercises will involve “naval artillery and the launching of rockets.” As such, all Irish seafarers have been advised of “serious safety risks in the operation area” and are instructed to avoid it entirely.

All mariners are also reminded mariners of their responsibilities under International Maritime Law.

The warning comes as Cork fishermen belonging to the Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation announced their intention to protest the games by heading out into the waters to do their job.

While the operations will take place in international waters, it does take place in Ireland’s exclusive economic zone.

Patrick Murphy, CEO of the organisation, has acknowledged that the warning could affect the fishers’ plans to venture out towards the waters, as it could invalidate the insurance policies on their boats.