tech

January 12, 2026

Russia is turning its military into a high-tech arsenal

From nuclear-powered subs to AI-powered drones, these upgrades are set to transform Russia’s battlefield reach

Russia is turning its military into a high-tech arsenal

TL;DR

  • Russia's military is set to introduce new weapons systems in 2026, including strategic missiles, submarines, air defense systems, combat aircraft, and unmanned technologies.
  • The Su-75 Checkmate, a new single-engine fifth-generation fighter, is expected to have its first flight in 2026.
  • The Project 09851 Khabarovsk nuclear-powered submarine, designed to carry Poseidon UUVs, is expected to begin sea trials.
  • New solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are expected to begin test launches and potentially replace the Topol-M missiles.
  • The heavy liquid-fueled Sarmat ICBM is set to enter the final phase of its flight testing program.
  • The Zircon air-launched ballistic missile production is expected to ramp up, with the K-572 Perm nuclear submarine being the first to carry its underwater-launch variant.
  • The heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov will continue sea trials and may demonstrate its capability to launch Zircon hypersonic missiles.
  • Deployment of the S-500 Prometheus missile system, Russia's most advanced anti-ballistic missile system, will continue.
  • Several types of intercept drones with AI control systems are being developed to counter enemy FPV drones.
  • New types of ground drones and unmanned formations are being developed, with a new branch of the Russian Armed Forces dedicated to unmanned systems expected to be established.
  • New Koalitsiya-SV 152mm self-propelled howitzers are anticipated for ground troops.

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