Putin Signs New Russian Naval Doctrine

At today’s Russian Navy day holiday Vladimir Putin said Russia’s navy would soon be fitted with powerful “Zircon” hypersonic cruise missiles, which can fly at five times the speed of sound. He signed an expansive new naval doctrine and vowed to respond “with lightning speed to anyone who decides to encroach on our sovereignty and freedom.”

Putin Outlines Extensive New Naval Doctrine

President Vladimir Putin’s new 55-page naval doctrine, signed Sunday in St. Peterburg, provides for building new aircraft carriers and ensuring that the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad is accessible. 

A shipbuilding complex will be developed in Russia’s far east to construct large vessels, and a new ferry line to Kaliningrad will be built in the direction of ports in Ust-Luga and St. Petersburg, according to the document. 

The decree also says that controlling the activities of foreign states in the waters of the Northern Sea Route is a priority, and envisages a permanent Russian naval presence in the Mediterranean. Named as a major threat to Russia’s security was the US’s “strategic course to dominate the oceans.” 

Putin Says Russian Navy to Get New Hypersonic Missiles

Russia’s navy will start to be fitted with “Zircon” hypersonic missiles in the coming months, President Vladimir Putin said Sunday in St. Petersburg in a speech to mark Russia’s Navy Day holiday. 

The location of the ships equipped with the cruise missiles will be determined based on the “interests of ensuring the security of Russia,” Putin said. 

The Russian leader didn’t mention Ukraine in his speech. He signed a new, lengthy naval doctrine that named the US as the main threat to Russia and foresaw a strengthening in Moscow’s geopolitical position. 

Also Read: On Navy Day, Putin Cast United States As Main Rival

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up