Putin says Russia to focus on strengthening nuclear triad

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday said Russia will focus on strengthening its nuclear triad, referring to nuclear missiles based on land, sea and in the air.

In a televised address to mark Defender of the Fatherland Day, an annual state holiday in Russia, Putin said "modern and efficient army and navy are a guarantee of the country's security and sovereignty, and a guarantee of its stable development and its future."

"We will continue to supply advanced equipment to our troops, including new strike systems, reconnaissance and communications equipment, drones and artillery systems," he said.

The remarks come two days after Putin suspended the New START nuclear arms control treaty with the US over its increasing involvement in the Ukraine war.

The president said the Russian industry is quickly increasing the production of the entire range of conventional weapons and preparing for mass production of advanced weapons.

"As before, we will put our focus on strengthening the nuclear triad. This year, the first Sarmat missile system launchers with the new heavy missile will be put on combat duty.

"We will continue full production of the Kinzhal air-launched hypersonic systems and begin mass deployment of Tsirkon sea-launched hypersonic missiles," he said.

He added that once the Borei-A nuclear-powered submarine Emperor Alexander III is transferred to the navy, renovation of the naval strategic nuclear forces will be completed, and the share of modern weapons and equipment will reach 100%.

"Our people believe in you, the defenders of Russia, in your reliability, resolve and devotion to the Fatherland and the oath. Millions of people are following their hearts as they help our frontline soldiers, and this unbreakable unity is the key to our victory," the Russian leader said.

Putin also laid a wreath to the Tomb of Unknown Soldier in Moscow, a traditional ceremony commemorating the memory of all the defenders ever fought for Russia.