Putin says ballistic missile submarines will ensure Russia's security for decades

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia will build four new ballistic missile submarines that would ensure the country’s security for decades, President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

The new submarines and ships with modern navigation, communication and sonar systems will be equipped with high-precision weapons and robotic systems, Putin said at a ceremony.

He said that Generalissimus Suvorov submarine armed with Bulava (Mace) ballistic missiles will "significantly increase the capabilities" of Russia's nuclear naval forces.

"And I would like to note that within the framework of the current state armament program, four more such submarines will be built, which will ensure Russia's security for decades to come," he said.

In addition, Putin said that the small rocket ship Grad Sviyazhsk is also a new generation project, specifying that ships were effective in performing combat tasks in Syria and during the “special military operation” in Ukraine.

He said the Anatoly Shlemov minesweeper is considered one of Russia's most successful developments, adding that 10 more vessels of this type will be built.

"We will increase the pace and volume of construction of ships of various projects, equip them with the most modern weapons, conduct operational and combat training of sailors, taking into account the experience gained, including during a special military operation.

"In short, we will do everything necessary to reliably ensure the security of Russia and to protect our national interests in the oceans," Putin stressed.