Putin leads strategic nuclear deterrent exercises

Russian President Vladimir Putin (SPUTNIK)

Russian President Vladimir Putin directed the exercise of strategic nuclear deterrent forces from the situation center in the Kremlin.

Speaking before the exercise, Putin said, “Today we are carrying out a new exercise for strategic deterrence forces.” he said. “We will implement the actions of the authorities in managing the use of nuclear weapons, including practical launches of ballistic and cruise missiles.”

Putin emphasized that nuclear weapons would only be used as a last resort to ensure the country’s security, noting that this is a fundamental part of Russia’s military doctrine.

He said that the “nuclear triad” remains a reliable guarantor of Russia’s sovereignty and security, enabling strategic deterrence goals and maintaining nuclear equality and balance of power around the world.

“We are not trying to enter a new arms race,” the Russian President emphasized. “But we will maintain our nuclear forces at the required level of proficiency.”

Increasing global tensions and the emergence of new external threats underscore the importance of modern strategic deterrent forces being in a permanent state of readiness.

Russia will continue to strengthen all components of these forces, the president said, assuring that the country has the resources to do so.

According to the state armament program, the Strategic Missile Forces (RVSN) will gradually transition to new fixed and mobile missile systems with higher accuracy, shorter launch preparation time and improved capabilities to overcome missile defense systems.

Putin noted that the Navy’s fleet has been updated with the latest nuclear submarines, and the air force’s strategic long-range bombers are also undergoing modernization.