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It remains unclear exactly what Russia's involvement will be in this year's Olympics in Rio following revelations of state-ordered doping.

But that hasn't stopped the nation holding an " Olympics" of its own - albeit an Olympics with tanks.

This is the Tank Biathlon World Championships, currently taking place just outside Moscow during the International Military Games.

A total of 17 nations - including China and Russia - are taking part in the competition, which involves the military vehicles navigating a series of obstacles before firing their cannons at targets.

Dramatic footage of the competition has been uploaded to YouTube - and it couldn't really be more Russian in its perception of masculinaty.

Just as the President Vladimir Putin is wont to pose shirtless while fishing and riding horses, the Tank Biathlon is presented with a pounding heavy metal soundtrack, lots of fire and men with big guns running around in front of even bigger tanks.

(Image: Getty)

The event was devised by the Russian Military three years ago, inspired by the Biathlon, a winter sport involving cross country skiing and rifle shooting.

It''s popularity has soared since the first event, with a record 51 crews taking part this year.

Russia have been victorious in the previous two contests and will be hoping to make it a hat trick on August 13, when the last four remaining teams battle it out in the final race.