Russian Army rehearse for annual march to celebrate 73rd end of war

The annual ceremony, held in Russia and other former Soviet countries on May 9, will mark the 73rd anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat in the Second World War - known as the Great Patriotic War in Russia.

Planes, jets, helicopters, tanks and artillery vehicles make their way through Red Square in Moscow and Palace Square in St. Petersburg for the country's most important national holiday.

And for the last week, the country's armed forces have been gearing up for the much-anticipated display of patriotism and military might with flamboyant rehearsals in Moscow and St. Petersburg.