January 2016 - Russia Special Weapons News

U.S. Senator Predicts Revelations Of Putin's Wealth Will Destabilize His Rule RFE/RL 01 Feb 2016 -- A senior U.S. lawmaker says revelations about Russian President Vladimir Putin's wealth will be "destabilizing" to his rule as the Russian population becomes increasingly aware of them.
U.S. Sanctions Five More On 'Magnitsky List' Of Alleged Rights Abusers RFE/RL 01 Feb 2016 -- The United States has added five more Russians to its so-called "Magnitsky List," which sanctions alleged human rights abusers that have been linked to the death of whistle-blowing Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky and other violations.
US urges Russia to respect Turkey, NATO airspace Press TV 31 Jan 2016 -- The US Department of Defense has urged Russia to respect North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) airspace, saying it "can confirm" reports that a Russian jet violated Turkey's airspace earlier this week.
When Push Comes to Shove: US Pressures Turkey to Secure Border With Syria Sputnik 31 Jan 2016 -- The United States is working to pressure the Turkish government to finally control the insecure border between Turkey and war-torn Syria, Defense News reported.
Turkish Air Force Raises Alert Level After Alleged Airspace Violation Sputnik 31 Jan 2016 -- The Turkish Air Force has declared an 'orange alert' at key bases after an alleged violation of the country's airspace by a Russian fighter jet, Anadolu news agency reported, citing military sources in Ankara.
Statement by the NATO Secretary General on Russian air space violation NATO 30 Jan 2016 -- A Russian combat aircraft violated Turkish airspace yesterday, despite repeated warnings by the Turkish authorities. Previous incidents have shown how dangerous such behaviour is.
Russia Opposes Putting Arms Embargo On South Sudan RFE/RL 30 Jan 2016 -- Russia has said it opposes placing a United Nations arms embargo on South Sudan or blacklisting President Salva Kiir and rebel leader Riek Machar as such moves will not improve prospects for peace.
Russian jet flies within 15 feet of US spy plane Press TV 30 Jan 2016 -- A Russian jet has flown by a US spy plane over the Black Sea in an "unsafe and unprofessional manner," coming within 15 feet (4.5 meters) from it, says the Pentagon.
Russia denies Turkey airspace violation claims Press TV 30 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry has denied any manner of Turkish airspace violation by its jets.
Turkey summons Russian envoy over 'airspace violation' Press TV 30 Jan 2016 -- Turkey says it has summoned Russia's ambassador to Ankara in protest at alleged violation of Turkish airspace by Russian jets.
Turkey Says Russian Plane Violated Its Airspace RFE/RL 30 Jan 2016 -- Turkey says a Russian plane has again violated Turkey's airspace, two months after Turkey shot down a Russian warplane in a similar incident.
Russian Defense Ministry Denies Violation of Turkish Airspace by Su-34 Sputnik 30 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry said Saturday that no Russian aircraft had violated Turkish airspace, adding that neither Russian air defense in Syria, nor Syrian radards had detected violations of Turkish borders by a Russian Su-34 warplane as Ankara claimed earlier in the day.
Turkey Summons Russian Ambassador Over Alleged Airspace Violation Sputnik 30 Jan 2016 -- The Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Saturday it had summoned the Russian Ambassador to Turkey over an alleged Turkish airspace violation by a Russian jet. The Russian Embassy confirmed that the envoy had been summoned, however, did not disclose the reason for the meeting.
Turkey Says Russian Jet Violated Airspace VOA 30 Jan 2016 -- Tensions rose Saturday between Turkey and Russia when Turkey and NATO said a Russian warplane had violated Turkish airspace. Russia dismissed the Turkish allegations as 'baseless propaganda.'
Russia Successfully Puts European Communications Satellite Into Orbit Sputnik 30 Jan 2016 -- Russian Proton-M carrier rocket successfully put European Eutelsat 9B communications satellite into orbit, a spokesperson for Russian Roscosmos state corporation said Saturday.
Small but Dangerous: Russia's New Missile Corvette Packs Huge Punch Sputnik 30 Jan 2016 -- Russia's all-new Buyan-M missile corvette may be small but the weapons it carries on board really boggle the mind, Zvezda TV channel wrote on its website Friday.
Russia's Central Military District to Get Over 1,200 Pieces of Equipment Sputnik 30 Jan 2016 -- Russia's Central Military District (MD) will receive more than 1,200 pieces of military and special equipment in 2016, Commander of the Central MD Col. Gen. Vladimir Zarudnitsky said Saturday.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova Moscow, January 29, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 29 Jan 2016
Russia to Rearm Two More Missile Divisions With Yars ICBMs Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) have started rearmament of two more missile divisions with advanced RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) systems, SMF Commander Col. Gen. Sergey Karakayev said Friday.
Bastion: Russia Develops Silo-Based Anti-Ship Missile System for Export Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- The silo-based export version of the Bastion anti-ship missile system will meet the demands of countries which need to protect a limited area of their coastlines.
Russia to Deploy More Su-30 Interceptor Jets in Crimea Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- A number of new planes will be added to the squadron of Sukhoi Su-30SM multirole interceptors deployed in Crimea, the Black Sea Fleet Commander, Admiral Alexander Vitko, said on Friday.
Invincible Shield: Russia Puts S-400 Systems on Combat Duty Near Moscow Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Armed Forces have put an air defense regiment, equipped with advanced S-400 Triumf air defense systems, on combat duty in the Moscow Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on Friday.
No Secret: Russia Supplies Small Arms to Fiji at Government's Request Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry denied on Friday media reports on alleged 'secret' supplies of firearms and ammunition to the Pacific nation of Fiji, saying the deliveries were carried out on request by the Fiji government.
India to Equip Submarines With Russian-Indian BrahMos Missiles Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- India plans to equip new submarines with BrahMos cruise missiles, made jointly by India and Russia, the head of the Russian missile manufacturer NPO Mashinostroyenia said Friday.
Indian Company Mulls Joint Construction of Warships With Russia, UK Sputnik 29 Jan 2016 -- India's shipbuilding company Bharatu Shipyard, which has a license to build warships in India, has been discussing with Russian and British companies the joint construction of naval vessels, the Mumbai-based newspaper The Economic Times reported on Friday.
Pentagon Says Russian Jet Buzzed U.S. Plane Over Black Sea RFE/RL 29 Jan 2016 -- A Russian fighter jet flew close to a U.S. Air Force spy plane 'in an unsafe and unprofessional manner' over the Black Sea on January 25, a U.S. Defense Department spokeswoman said.
Syrian defense chief in Moscow to discuss military ties Press TV 29 Jan 2016 -- Syrian Defense Minister Fahd Jassem al-Freij has paid an official visit to Moscow to discuss the results of a Russian aerial campaign against Takfiri terror groups in the Arab country.
Russia Publicly Embraces Talks With OPEC On Oil Output Cuts RFE/RL 29 Jan 2016 -- Russia for the first time publicly embraced talking to the OPEC oil cartel about jointly cutting global oil production by up to 5 percent to prop up collapsing oil prices.
Analysts: Putin's Man in Chechnya a Potential Liability VOA 28 Jan 2016 -- The bellicose leader of Russia's republic of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, rules with aggressive rhetoric and an iron fist that sparks outcries from liberal politicians but no rebuke from the Kremlin.
Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook on US-Russia Video Conference Discussing the Flight Safety Memorandum of Understanding DoD 28 Jan 2016
NATO weighing first talks with Russia in 2 years: Stoltenberg Press TV 28 Jan 2016 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says the western military alliance is discussing whether to hold first formal negotiations with Russia after ties between the two sides strained in 2014.
Russia, India Begin Work on 200 Ka-226T Helicopter Production Agreement Sputnik 28 Jan 2016 -- According to Russian Helicopters company, Russia and India have commenced a joint project to produce 200 Ka-226T helicopters.
Russian Oil Execs Agree To Talk With OPEC About Boosting Prices RFE/RL 28 Jan 2016 -- Russian oil executives and energy officials decided this week they should talk to Saudi Arabia and the OPEC oil cartel about cutting output to boost world oil prices, the head of Russia's pipeline monopoly said on January 27.
Nuclear fuel exchange with Russia very profitable: Salehi Press TV 28 Jan 2016 -- Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi says the recent exchange of nuclear fuel with Russia was "very profitable."
Talk Of Russia Cooperation With OPEC Lifts Markets RFE/RL 27 Jan 2016 -- Rumors that oil giants Saudi Arabia and Russia might work together to curb their booming output spurred a spike in oil prices and lifted global stock markets on January 26.
Japan Considers Lavrov's Remarks on Southern Kurils 'Unacceptable' Sputnik 27 Jan 2016 -- The Japanese government considers remarks made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the territorial issue between the two countries "unacceptable," Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Koichi Hagiuda said Wednesday.
International Court To Probe 2008 Georgia-Russia Conflict For Alleged War Crimes RFE/RL 27 Jan 2016 -- International Criminal Court (ICC) judges have authorized prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes committed "in and around South Ossetia" during 2008 when Russia fought a brief war against Georgia over the breakaway region.
ICC Authorizes Investigation Into 2008 Russia-Georgia Conflict VOA 27 Jan 2016 -- International Criminal Court (ICC) judges have authorized an investigation into allegations that war crimes and crimes against humanity were committed during the 2008 Russia-Georgia conflict.
Russian-Egyptian Eased Navy Access Protocol Enters Into Force Sputnik 26 Jan 2016 -- Russia's protocol with Egypt on simplifying navy ships access to mutual waters has come into force, according to the text of the document published by Russia's official legal information database on Wednesday.
Indonesian Defense Chief Plans April Russia Visit Eyeing Su-35 Purchase Sputnik 26 Jan 2016 -- Indonesian Ambassador to Russia Djauhari Oratmangun said that Indonesia's defense minister plans to visit Russia in April to continue discussions on the procurement of Russian Su-35 Flanker-E superiority fighters.
Russian Actions in Syria Cause Daesh to 'Lose Foothold for First Time' Sputnik 26 Jan 2016 -- Russian Permanent Representative to the UN Vitaly Churkin stated that the military campaign conducted by Russia against Daesh and other terrorist groups in Syria has contributed to their losing standing in the country.
Russia Hardens Position Ahead of Syria Peace Talks VOA 26 Jan 2016 -- Russia appeared to be hardening its position on Syria as it backed government forces making gains against rebels before hoped-for peace talks Friday in Geneva.
Russia Denies Building Second Air Base In Syria RFE/RL 26 Jan 2016 -- Russia has no plans to set up a second air base in Syria, the Russian Defense Ministry has said.
Russia accuses Turkey of Syria border buildup Press TV 26 Jan 2016 -- Russia has accused Turkey of military buildup on the Syrian border as it rejected claims of Moscow's plan to establish a new airbase in the Arab country.
Kremlin dismisses US accusation of corruption against Putin Press TV 26 Jan 2016 -- The Kremlin has rejected a US official's accusation of corruption against Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling the claim official and challenging the US to provide evidence for it.
U.S. Official Says Putin Is Secretly Wealthy, Corrupt RFE/RL 26 Jan 2016 -- The BBC is reporting that the United States has long considered Russian President Vladimir Putin to be secretly wealthy, corrupt, and focused on enriching his friends and allies.
Kremlin Slams U.S. Official's Comment On Putin Being Corrupt RFE/RL 26 Jan 2016 -- The Kremlin says a U.S. Treasury official's comments to the BBC on Putin being corrupt 'amount to an official accusation.'
Lavrov: Russia Won't Be 'Punished For Independent Foreign Policy' RFE/RL 26 Jan 2016 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow will not allow the West to punish if for conducting an independent foreign policy.
Why Putin Is Afraid Of Lenin RFE/RL 26 Jan 2016 -- Speaking to pro-Kremlin activists this week in the southern city of Stavropol, the Kremlin leader raised eyebrows by denouncing Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin and the Bolsheviks for executing Tsar Nicholas II along with all his family and servants, killing thousands of priests, and placing a 'time bomb' under the Russian state.
Russia's Putin Calls for Improved Anti-corruption Measures VOA 26 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for the country to improve its anti-corruption measures, just hours after a BBC documentary reported his estimated personal fortune at close to $40 billion.
Russian Jets Carry Out 169 Sorties in Syria Hitting 484 Terrorist Targets Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Combat aircraft from the Russian air group in Syria carried out some 170 sorties in the last three days hitting over 480 terrorist targets, the Russian General Staff said Monday.
Turkey Shrouding Troop Deployment in Syria With Russian Airbase Rumors Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said that media reports on a new Russian base in Syria may be an attempt to cover-up information about Turkey's deployment of a large group of troops to the Syrian border.
Putin Denounces Lenin, Says Stalin Got it Right VOA 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has criticized the regime of Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin and sharply denounced brutal repressions by the Bolshevik government.
Putin: Lenin's Ideas Destroyed USSR by Backing Republics Right to Secession Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin has planted a 'delay-action mine' by advocating for the individual republics' right to political secession.
Russian Authorities Should Deal With Issue of Lenin's Reburial Carefully Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the Russian authorities on the issue of burying the body of Russian communist leader Vladimir Lenin should not make any rash moves that could divide society, instead, they should unite people.
Socialist Ideas Correct, Poorly Implemented in Soviet Union - Putin Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the ideas of socialism were good – equality, fraternity, happiness, but the practical implementation of those ideas in Russia and the Soviet Union was far from what the socialists-utopists envisioned.
Putin Calls for More Economic Freedom in Russia Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the fundamentals of the economy allow showing 'cautious optimism' regarding the development of the situation in Russia.
Putin Says Still Likes Communist, Socialist Ideas Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he still kept his Communist party identification document, despite the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Russian Prime Minister Orders Cabinet to Submit Anti-Crisis Plan Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said that current trends in global oil prices pose serious risks to the implementation of Russia's state budget and the goal of the government is to minimize these risks.
US Official: Putin Behavior 'Picture of Corruption' VOA 25 Jan 2016 -- A senior U.S. Treasury official is accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of corruption, saying the Kremlin leader uses his position to enrich friends and allies at the expense of others.
Putin Praises Controversial Chechen Leader For 'Effective' Work RFE/RL 25 Jan 2016 -- President Vladimir Putin has praised Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of Russia's Chechnya region, who has been widely accused of human rights abuses and recently unleashed a series of verbal attacks on liberals and Kremlin opponents.
India, Russia Slash Fifth Gen Fighter Jet Development Costs by 40% Sputnik 25 Jan 2016 -- India's Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and Russia's Sukhoi negotiators cut the costs of Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project joint project from $12 billion to $8 billion.
Russia's Strategic Bomber PAK DA May Take off Earlier than Expected Sputnik 24 Jan 2016 -- Work on the PAK DA strategic bomber is coming along at a good pace, according to the Chief of the Russian Air and Space Forces, Viktor Bondarev.
Aircraft That 'Bites': Russia to Sell Egypt 46 Alligator Helicopters Sputnik 23 Jan 2016 -- To equip the French-made Mistral-class ships, Egypt is buying 46 Russian Ka-52 Alligator reconnaissance and combat helicopters, Austrian online newspaper Die Presse reported.
Russia, Pakistan to hold first ever joint military exercise Press TV 23 Jan 2016 -- Russia says it is set to hold its first ever drills with Pakistan this year as part of Moscow's efforts to reinforce its army amid NATO's increased military build-up at the Russian doorstep.
Hungary Intends to Buy Up to 30 Russian Choppers for $490 Mln Sputnik 22 Jan 2016 -- According to Russia's Arms Trade Analysis Centre, Hungary is interested in purchasing 30 Russian helicopters.
Russia to create new military divisions amid NATO drills Press TV 22 Jan 2016 -- Russia says it will create four new military divisions this year in an effort to reinforce its military forces amid increased exercises by NATO members states.
Thousands Rally in Chechnya To Support Kadyrov, Denounce Opposition RFE/RL 22 Jan 2016 -- A massive crowd turned out in Chechnya to voice support for the region's Kremlin-backed leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, and to echo his escalating condemnation of the Russian opposition.
US Admiral Claims Russia's Updated Nuclear Deterrence Doctrine 'Disturbing' Sputnik 22 Jan 2016 -- Russia's most up-to-date military doctrine stipulating the use of nuclear weapons as a deterrent and potential response to an existential threat raises concerns at the US Strategic Command (STRATCOM), STRATCOM Commander Admiral Cecil Haney said on Friday.
Russia to Rearm 5 Air Defense Regiments With S-400 Missile Systems in 2016 Sputnik 22 Jan 2016 -- Five air defense regiments will be rearmed with advanced S-400 Triumf air defense systems in 2016, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Gen. Valery Gerasimov said Friday.
Russian Nuclear Forces Receive 10 Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22 Strategic Bombers Sputnik 22 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces received 10 advanced strategic bombers Tu-160, Tu-95 and Tu-22 while the Navy got two strategic missile cruisers.
Thousands Rally in Chechnya In Support of Leader VOA 22 Jan 2016 -- Thousands of people took to the streets of Russia's Chechen capital of Grozny Friday to show their support for the region's pro-Kremlin leader, Ramzan Kadyrov and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ex-Russian spy dismisses Litvinenko inquiry Press TV 22 Jan 2016 -- A former Russian spy has rejected as nonsense a new British inquiry saying he was one of the state-directed murderers of dissident Alexander Litvinenko.
Britain Under Pressure to Punish Putin Over Litvinenko Poisoning VOA 22 Jan 2016 -- Calls grew Friday for the government of British Prime Minister David Cameron to penalize Russia following the release Thursday of the results of a public inquiry on the 2006 murder of dissident Alexander Litvinenko.
International Rights Groups Urge Kremlin Response To Kadyrov 'Threats' RFE/RL 22 Jan 2016 -- Prominent international rights groups have urged Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government to take action following 'threats' and 'menacing' language deployed by Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and his inner circle against journalists and activists.
Over 20 Swine Flu Cases Registered in Russia's Kamchatka Territory Sputnik 22 Jan 2016 -- Over 20 cases of swine flu have been registered in Russia's Kamchatka Territory, three children are among the infected, regional authorities report.
Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, January 21, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 Jan 2016
Ruble Leads Currency Retreat Across Former Soviet States RFE/RL 21 Jan 2016 -- The Russian ruble dropped to a new historic low against the U.S. dollar as currencies across the former Soviet Union continued to sputter amid persistently low oil prices.
Breaking Bad RFE/RL 21 Jan 2016 -- In many ways it all began with the assassination of Aleksandr Litvinenko. Not that Vladimir Putin's Russia was exactly a model global citizen before the November 2006 killing of the former KGB spy who defected to Great Britain.
Russia to Lay Down Two New Generation Corvettes in 2016 Sputnik 21 Jan 2016 -- Russia plans to lay down 15 warships, boats and vessels in 2016.
Russia to Float Out Two New Submarines for Black Sea Fleet in Spring 2016 Sputnik 21 Jan 2016 -- The launch of two new Russian diesel-electric submarines of the Project 636.3 is scheduled for the spring of 2016, Deputy Navy Commander Vice Adm. Alexander Fedotenkov told reporters.
Russian Jets Conduct 16 Sorties in Syria Over Past 24 Hours Sputnik 20 Jan 2016 -- Russian aviation has conducted 16 sorties in Syria over past 24 hours hitting 57 terrorist targets in two provinces, the Russian Defense Ministry said Wednesday.
Russian Air Force Leads Aerial Bombardment of Terrorists in Eastern Syria Sputnik 20 Jan 2016 -- Expectations were that the US-led coalition would make significant gains against terrorists in eastern Syria, but it has transpired that the Russian Air Force is up to the task of supporting Syrian troops battling Daesh there, German Economic News (DWN) reported.
Russia's Only Aircraft Carrier Not to Be Used in East Mediterranean Sputnik 20 Jan 2016 -- Highly-ranked official in the Russian military industrial complex said that Russia's only aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, will not be used in operations in the Eastern Mediterranean against Daesh terrorists.
Russia Postpones Manned Moon Mission for 5 Years – Space Agency Sputnik 20 Jan 2016 -- Russian space agency Roscosmos has postponed the first manned lunar mission from 2030 to 2035, according to the 2016-2025 space program unveiled Wednesday.
UK Judge to Release Findings on Death of Ex-KGB Agent VOA 20 Jan 2016 -- The mystery of the poisoning death of ex-KGB agent Alexander Litvinenko may be solved Thursday, when a British judge releases the findings of his inquiry.
US Intelligence Chalks Up Declining Influence in Europe to 'Russian Spies' IEA 19 Jan 2016 -- American intelligence is set to conduct a "major investigation" into the Kremlin's 'infiltration' of European political parties, The Telegraph reports.
In Izvestia, Kadyrov Says Russian Opposition 'Jackals' Will Be 'Punished' RFE/RL 19 Jan 2016 -- Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov has been engaged in an increasingly chilling confrontation with opponents and critics of Russian President Vladimir Putin - people he now routinely refers to as enemies of the people and puppets of the West.
Ramzan Kadyrov: The Kremlin's Id RFE/RL 19 Jan 2016 -- Ramzan Kadyrov hasn't gone rogue. Ramzan Kadyrov isn't off message. Ramzan Kadyrov hasn't jumped the shark.
Russia Scraps Plans of Additional Project 677 Submarines Construction Sputnik 19 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Navy decided not to build Lada-class diesel-electric submarines (Project 677) since the funding will be spent on Kalina-class ships, a senior Russian Navy's official said Tuesday.
Russia's East Siberia District Receives New Electronic Warfare Systems Sputnik 19 Jan 2016 -- Col. Alexander Gordeev said that Russian troops in the Eastern Military District (EMD) have received over 10 cutting-edge electronic warfare systems.
In U.S. Money-Laundering Case, Shades Of Russian Corruption RFE/RL 18 Jan 2016 -- At first glance, it's a case that could easily be misconstrued as a humdrum allegation of ill-gotten foreign money being laundered through dealings in American real estate.
Modern Military Hardware to Total 70% in Russian Southern District in 2016 Sputnik 18 Jan 2016 -- About 1,200 units of modern and modernized weapons and military hardware are expected to be delivered to the Russian Southern Military District forces, according to Commander of the Southern Military District Col. Gen. Alexander Galkin.
Russia Hopes Easing of Tehran Sanctions Will Boost Helicopter Sales to Iran Sputnik 18 Jan 2016 -- For Russian Helicopters company, the end of sanctions against Tehran means an opportunity to supply Iran with new military helicopters and after-sales services, according to the Russian state technology company Rostec.
Russia to Equip Radio-Technical Troops With 80% of Radars Before 2020 Sputnik 18 Jan 2016 -- The Radio-Technical Troops (RTT) of the Russian Aerospace Forces are to undergo a general re-equipment with advanced radar-location systems by 2020, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.
Dangerous Work: Russia Puts New Mine-Clearing Robots Into Service Sputnik 17 Jan 2016 -- State-of-the-art robotic demining systems have been put into service at Russia's Southern Military District, news reports said.
Russian Navy to Receive 42 Vessels in 2016 - Navy Shipbuilder Sputnik 16 Jan 2016 -- Russia's navy will get 42 ships and supply vessels in 2016, Navy Ship Building Directorate head Captain 1st rank Vladimir Tryapichnikov said Saturday.
Russia Moves Closer to Building New Aircraft Carrier Sputnik 16 Jan 2016 -- After decades-long efforts to restore its shipbuilding industry following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia finally seems to have obtained serious capabilities.
Deadly Typhoon: Russian Army to Receive Over 40 Tornado Rocket Systems Sputnik 16 Jan 2016 -- The Tornado rocket systems can fire salvos of 12 guided rockets and cover an area of 60 hectares.
Russian Warplanes Launch 97 Cruise Missiles on Daesh Targets in Syria Sputnik 15 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Aerospace Forces have launched 97 cruise missiles hitting Daesh targets in Syria, the Russian General Staff said on Friday.
Kadyrov Called A Disgrace, Then Scores Apology RFE/RL 15 Jan 2016 -- An independent local legislator in Siberia's Krasnoyarsk Krai has crossed swords with the powerful head of Russia's Chechnya region in the North Caucasus. But just one day after lawmaker Konstantin Senchenko posted a scathing attack on Ramzan Kadyrov on social media, he apologized 'profoundly' following a mysterious conversation with a representative of the Chechen community whom he refused to name.
Sky Superiority: Su-35S Jets Enter Service in Russia's Primorsky Territory Sputnik 15 Jan 2016 -- The fighter regiment is planned to fully replace the Su-27SM with its 4++ generation successor, the Su-35S, in the framework of Russia's military modernization program.
Briefing with Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, Moscow, January 14, 2016 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 Jan 2016
Russia Unveils Agreement With Syria on Deployment of Combat Air Group Sputnik 14 Jan 2016 -- Russia has unveiled the text of the agreement with Syria on the deployment of the Russian air group in the country.
One Year After Family's Brutal Slaying, Armenian City Divided Over Russian Base RFE/RL 14 Jan 2016 -- Russia's 102nd Military Base has long been a fixture in this northwestern Armenian city, the country's second-largest.
Hunt You Down: Russian Navy to Receive Modern Anti-Submarine Aircraft Sputnik 14 Jan 2016 -- In November this year, the Russian Navy will receive two more IL-38N Novella anti-submarine aircraft, in addition to five that have already been taken on board, the Deputy General Director of Ilyushin Aviation complex Yuri Yudin said.
Su-25SM Strike Aircraft Exercise Missile Launching in Southern Russia Sputnik 14 Jan 2016 -- Su-25SM strike aircraft are participating in drills in the Krasnodar Territory to practice maneuvers in adverse weather conditions, including launching guided missiles, the Defense Ministry's Southern Military District's (SMD) press service announced Thursday.
Russian Company Delivers Eight Il-76 Aircraft to 'Unnamed' Asian State Sputnik 13 Jan 2016 -- Russia's Ilyushin Aviation Complex (Ilyushin) delivered eight Il-76 aircraft to an Asian country that cannot be named under the terms of the bilateral agreements in 2015, Ilyushin's first deputy general director said Wednesday.
Iran, Russia back UN efforts in resolving Syria crisis Press TV 13 Jan 2016 -- Iran and Russia have expressed their support for the United Nations' efforts to put an end to the four-and-a-half-year crisis in Syria, warning against growing threats posed by terrorist groups to the region.
NATO will not 'limit' missile program to please Russia: US Press TV 13 Jan 2016 -- Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will not comply with Russian demands to limit their missile system deployments, says a US official.
Russia will deliver S-400 system to China in 2017: report CNA 13 Jan 2016 -- Russia will deliver its S-400 advanced surface-to-air missile system and 40N6E anti-air missiles to China in 2017, the latest edition of the Canada-based Kanwa Defense Review has said.
Russia Gets Weapons Wish List From Serbian Army Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said that by the end of February, Russia and Serbia will form a high level commission on military cooperation, which is expect to commence its work by spring.
Fly Meet Web: Russia Building a Powerful New Early Warning Radar Network Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- Earlier this month, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that 2016 will see the introduction of three powerful 'Voronezh'-series early warning radar systems. Adding to four stations of their type already in operation, the new systems' appearance will help lead, by 2020, to a full-scale modernization of the Russia's early warning radar network.
Russia To Create New Military Divisions On West Flank RFE/RL 12 Jan 2016 -- Russia says it will form three new military divisions on its western flank this year, and deploy five strategic nuclear missile regiments on combat duty.
'We Have Made Mistakes': Putin's Key Moments From New Bild Interview Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- On January 5, Russian President Vladimir Putin gave his first interview of 2016. Journalists from German's leading newspaper Bild asked his opinion on a number of issues. Sputnik has selected ten of the president's most interesting answers.
Russia to Form Three New Military Divisions in Country's West Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said that it was also necessary to build ranges, munition depots and accommodation for the troops in the Western Military District.
Over 3,000 Pacific Fleet Troops Launch Missile, Air Forces Exercise Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- According to Russian Defense Ministry's Eastern Military District's press service, more than 3,000 personnel from Russia's Pacific Fleet have commenced missile force, air force and marine corps exercises in the Kamchatka Territory.
Russia to Create Five More Strategic Missile Forces Regiments in 2016 Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- Russian Defense Minister said that five new missile regiments from the Russian Strategic Missile Forces will enter service in 2016.
Russia to Complete Construction of the Arctic, Kuril Military Bases in 2016 Sputnik 12 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Defense Ministry plans to complete the construction of its military facilities in the Arctic.
Russia's Opposition Ponders Problem of Chechnya's Kadyrov VOA 11 Jan 2016 -- Ramzan Kadyrov, the 39-year-old strongman who has held the post of president of Russia's Chechen Republic for nine years, rang in the new year by lashing out at Chechen immigrants who took to the streets in Vienna, Austria, on Christmas Eve to protest against his rule.
Russia Considering Serbia's Request to Buy Defensive Weapons Sputnik 11 Jan 2016 -- Dmitry Rogozin, the Russian deputy prime minister said that the final decision on the matter of Serbian request to buy Russian arms would be made based on the 'necessity to maintain Serbia's security at the minimal sufficient level with regard to its needs.'
Twelve Children Killed As Suspected Russian Air Strike Hits Syrian School RFE/RL 11 Jan 2016 -- A suspected Russian air strike has struck a school in northern Syria, killing at least 12 children.
Joint Mistakes, NATO Expansion to Blame for Russia-West Tensions - Putin Sputnik 11 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says a number of 'mistakes' committed by the US, Russia and NATO following the break-up of the Soviet Union has led to the current deterioration of relations between Moscow and the West, with NATO's expansion into eastern Europe one of the major damaging factors.
A Late Holiday Gift: Two Su-35S Jets Enter Service in Russia's Far East Sputnik 11 Jan 2016 -- First two Su-35S jets to enter service with Russia's Eastern Military District.
Iran Withdraws Suit Against Russia Over Non-Delivery of S-300 Systems Sputnik 11 Jan 2016 -- Russian Deputy Prime Minister said that Iran will recall its suit against Russia for the non-delivery of S-300 air defense systems.
Russian Navy to Enhance Captains' Training in Naval Aviation Operations Sputnik 10 Jan 2016 -- Russian navy fleet in 2016 will see a significant broadening of training for captains and captains' senior assistants on ships with naval aviation on board, according to naval aviation Chief Igor Kozhin.
Russian Army Airborne Units Receive New Portable Air Defense Systems Sputnik 10 Jan 2016 -- Four of Russia's airborne troop units received the newest combat equipment supplied in bundles which included the Verba man-portable surface-to-air defense system with the Barnaul-T automatic control system, as well as a single learning and training set, according to a military official.
All Seeing Eye: Russian Flotilla Tests Cutting-Edge Radar Sputnik 10 Jan 2016 -- Russia's Caspian Sea flotilla successfully conducted a test of the over-the-horizon radar system Podsolnukh during recent drills, media reports said.
Russia Delivers Nearly 14,000 Tons of Cargo to Syria's Hmeimim Airbase Sputnik 09 Jan 2016 -- According to Russian Aerospace Forces spokesman, Russia's military transport aviation has carried out over 280 sorties to deliver infrastructure for Syria's Hmeimim airbase and has transferred almost 14,000 metric tons of cargo there.
New US Navy Document Shows Fear of Russia and China Rising Sputnik 09 Jan 2016 -- A new US Navy document shows a fear of Russia and China's new naval strengths, which challenge its supremacy amid shrinking procurement budgets.
Aircraft Killer: New Russian Buk-M3 SAM System to Enter Service Soon Sputnik 09 Jan 2016 -- In 2016 the Russian Armed Forces are about to receive a new and deadly addition to their arsenal – Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system (NATO reporting name: SA-17 Grizzly).
Russian Army Gains Over 1,500 Modern Drones in 4 Years - Defense Ministry Sputnik 09 Jan 2016 -- According to Defense Ministry, Russia's armed forces received over 1,500 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) over the last four years.
U.S. Navy hypes Russia and China's challenge to its maritime superiority People's Daily 08 Jan 2016 -- The U.S. is to strengthen its naval power in order to compete with rising Russian and Chinese military capabilities, the Chief of U.S. Naval Operations wrote in a recent strategy report.
Russian Hacker Sandworm Blamed For Ukraine Power Outage RFE/RL 08 Jan 2016 -- U.S. cyberintelligence firm iSight Partners said it is certain that a Russian hacking group known as Sandworm caused last month's unprecedented power outage in Ukraine.
Eagle Eye: Russia Testing New Generation Missile Warning Satellite Sputnik 08 Jan 2016 -- Russia will orbit a second new generation satellite in 2016 to keep a closer eye on ballistic missile launches anywhere in the world, the Defense Ministry said, Zvezda TV channel reported.
Modernization Time: Russian Northern Fleet to Receive More S-400 Systems Sputnik 08 Jan 2016 -- In 2016, Russia's Northern Fleet will continue to modernize its air defenses. In particular, the navy will receive S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems and Pantsir-S1 a medium range surface-to-air missile.
Russia Suspected in First-ever Cyberattack on Ukraine's Power Grid VOA 07 Jan 2016 -- In the last months of 2015, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine over Crimea's annexation and continuing strife in Ukraine's east appeared largely to be in stalemate. But now, with the new year, it appears the conflict is heating up again, and playing out on the region's electric grids.
U.S. Suspects Russia Behind Cyberattack On Ukraine Power Grid RFE/RL 07 Jan 2016 -- U.S. security agencies are investigating whether Russian government hackers were behind a cyberattack on the Ukrainian power grid last month.
Russian Bloggers Pinpoint Alleged Russian Cluster-Bomb Use In Syria RFE/RL 07 Jan 2016 -- Russian open-source bloggers say they have documented more evidence that Russia is using cluster bombs in its air campaign supporting Syria's embattled regime.
Russia Seeks Mediation Role in Iran-Saudi Dispute VOA 06 Jan 2016 -- Russia has offered to act as an intermediary between Iran and Saudi Arabia following Riyadh's execution of the prominent Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr.
Russia's Strategic Missile Forces to Go All-Digital by 2020 Sputnik 06 Jan 2016 -- The Russian Strategic Missile Forces will completely switch to digital data transmission technologies by 2020, spokesperson of the Defense Ministry Maj. Dmitry Andreev told journalists.
Russian, S Korean Diplomats Express Concern Over Pyongyang's H-Bomb Test Sputnik 06 Jan 2016 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov and South Korean Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs Hwang Joon-kook in a phone conversation expressed concern over an alleged hydrogen bomb test announced by Pyongyang, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.
North Korea's 'hydrogen bomb test' draws Moscow's reaction Press TV 06 Jan 2016 -- North Korea's announcement of performing a hydrogen bomb test has drawn a serious reaction from Russia, with Moscow describing the move, if confirmed, a "flagrant" violation of international law.
NATO, U.S. Deny Posing Any Security Threat To Russia RFE/RL 06 Jan 2016 -- NATO and the United States are denying that the alliance's expansion into eastern Europe and increased activity there poses any menace to Russia as Moscow asserted in its new security doctrine.
Eucom Commander Seeks New Approach to Russia AFPS 05 Jan 2016 -- For two decades, the United States "hugged the bear" in Europe, but that has to change, the commander of U.S. European Command said.
New MiG-29 Jets to be Deployed to Russian Airbase in Armenia Sputnik 05 Jan 2016 -- After being fully repaired, MiG-29 fourth generation jet fighters will be deployed to the Russian airbase in Erebuni to protect Armenian airspace.
Russia's Missile Forces Will Get New Combat Management System in 2016 Sputnik 05 Jan 2016 -- According to the Russian Defense Ministry, the country's Strategic Missile Forces will supply command centers with a new integrated automated battle management system.
Newest S-400 System Deployed to Protect Skies Over Moscow Sputnik 05 Jan 2016 -- A new S-400 Triumf air defense system entered service with the unit of the Russian Aerospace Forces in the Moscow Region. The system was delivered after test firing was completed at the Kapustin Yar range.
New Russian Strategy Document Calls NATO a 'Threat' VOA 05 Jan 2016 -- On December 31, President Vladimir Putin signed off on a new national security strategy for Russia that unequivocally identifies NATO as a threat. The new strategy, observers say, reflects the recent deterioration in relations between Russia and the West, following Moscow's annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in eastern Ukraine, as well as its more recent military intervention in Syria.
Russia Naming U.S. as Threat Does Not Change Chairman's Perspective AFPS 04 Jan 2016 -- The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff told reporters traveling with him here that a new Russian national security strategy document naming the United States as a threat does not change his perception of the threat posed by Russia.
Russian Strategic Missile Forces to Get 1,000 Training Simulators by 2020 Sputnik 04 Jan 2016 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) will receive up to 1,000 simulator complexes designed to train missile systems' operators by 2020, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman said Monday.
Russian Military Intelligence Chief Dies Unexpectedly RFE/RL 04 Jan 2016 -- The Kremlin says the head of Russia's military intelligence agency, which is known as the GRU, has died unexpectedly.
Russia to Continue Launching Early Warning Defense Satellites Sputnik 03 Jan 2016 -- Russia's early warning system for detecting missile launches will continue expanding in 2016 with at least one new satellite.
Russian Missile Cruiser Varyag Arrives in Mediterranean Sputnik 03 Jan 2016 -- Russian Slava-class guided missile cruiser Varyag arrived in the Mediterranean Sea as part of its mission, according to the press service of the Russian Eastern Military District.
New Missile to Boost S-400 Air Defense System Capability Sputnik 03 Jan 2016 -- According to Russian military industry, a new missile with a longer range specifically developed for Russia's S-400 air defense system will push the range at which the system can engage targets to its limit.
More Crimean Power Shortages Likely With End Of Ukraine Supplies RFE/RL 02 Jan 2016 -- Residents of Crimea face several more months of power shortages as Russia appears to have ended a contract with Ukraine to deliver electricity to the peninsula it annexed in 2014.
Sea Ghost: New Russian Submarine is Stealthier Than a 'Black Hole' Sputnik 02 Jan 2016 -- Russia's newest silent submarine is even stealthier than its sneaky predecessor.
Putin declares NATO 'threat' to Russian security Press TV 01 Jan 2016 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new defense strategy document that declares the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) a threat to Russia's national security.

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January 2016 - Russia Special Weapons News