MOSCOW -- Russia plans to deploy new missile systems in 2018, President Vladimir Putin said during a meeting with defense officials in Sochi on May 15.
Russia plans to equip 14 missile regiments will the new Yars intercontinental missile (ICBM). This system replaces the existing Topol missile.
In addition, Russia will deploy modernized strategic bombers armed with new long-range cruise missiles. Putin also said the new S-500 surface-to-air missile (SAM) system will soon be ready for deployment.
Russia is preceeding with its military modernization program despite its weak economy.