Fifth generation fighter jet Su-57 is one of the most expected weapons in the Russian Air Forces.
Global Look PressThe economic crisis has taken
New era weapons such as T-14 Armata tanks, Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jets, and RS-24 “
The main focus remains on strategic missile systems as nuclear weapons serve as Russia’s main deterrence from any potential conflict.
Eleven "Yars" intercontinental ballistic missile systems will join the military in 2018.
Alexandr Kryazhev/SputnikIn 2018 Russia will get 11 RS-24 “
Russia also plans to test another 12 “
At the same time, the Ground Forces will be boosted with around 3500 new light and heavy armored vehicles. This includes new generation T-14 Armata tanks.
Its basic version uses a 125 mm gun and is capable of shooting up to ten rounds per minute that can hit targets at a distance of seven km. In comparison, the American Abrams tank can only fire three rounds per minute and has a range of just 4.6 km.
In addition, each new Russian tank is equipped with its own radar system, which gives it specific advantages in terms of aiming and firing control. As a result, the T-14 can also hit aircraft and intercept enemy rockets and missiles.
Yet, according to Russia Beyond’s military source, the purchase of T-14 systems was smaller than expected. He said this was due to the economic crisis, but couldn't reveal the exact number of new generation tanks that Russia will get.
The Air Forces will get six modified Tu-160 and Tu-95MS strategic bombers, as well as six Su-34 bombers and up to 30 Su-30SM fighter jets. The army will start testing the new 4++ generation MiG-35 fighter jet and will sign the first contract for a batch of Su-57 fifth-generation fighters (for 2019).
In the coming year, the Air Force will receive 203 planes and helicopters including Ka-52 “Alligators” and Mi-28 battle helicopters.
Ka-52 battle helicopter is one of most powerful additions to the Air Forces.
Sergey Pivovarov/SputnikThe Aerospace Forces will also get four divisions of the notorious “Pantsir-S1” air defense systems and ten divisions of the S-400 “Triumph” air defense complex. Some of these machines will be stationed in Crimea.
According to Russian news agencies, the Defence Ministry may also sign a contract on purchasing missile loading machines for S-500 “Prometheus” air defense system.
2018 is shaping up as a big year for Russia’s military and you would definitely like to know how Russian tank army will look like in 15 years.
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