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

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.
Continue reading
the original article