Russia will keep enhancing nuclear triad, says defense minister

MOSCOW

Russia will continue to develop its nuclear triad as the main guarantor of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu said on Tuesday.

The combat capabilities of Russia’s Aerospace Forces will also be increased, both in terms of fighter aircraft and bombers and unmanned aerial vehicles, he said at the year’s first meeting with military chiefs in Moscow.

“Our immediate plans are to expand the arsenals of modern shock weapons. An equally important task is to upgrade equipment and tactical gear of personnel to the highest level in the shortest possible time,” he said.

Shoygu pointed out that management and communications systems also require improvements, including through integration of artificial intelligence.

All these efforts will enhance the combat capabilities of Russian forces and help deter aggression against Russia and its allies, the minister asserted.