Putin Emphasizes That Large Ships Remain the Foundation of the Russian Navy

Reference News Network reported on July 28 According to TASS on July 26, Russian President Putin stated during a meeting with Russian Navy personnel on the 26th that large ships will still be the foundation of naval development.

Putin pointed out that unmanned boats could be very effective in coastal areas, and Russia "is developing strike capabilities that can be deployed on such (coastal) vessels."

Putin said, "But when it comes to large ships, they are still a fundamental component of the Navy. Not to mention nuclear submarines—platforms equipped with heavy intercontinental missiles, as well as surface ships, frigates, cruisers, and so on." He also stated that these vessels, like aircraft carrier battle groups, must receive reliable protection.

According to reports, Putin recalled that the commanders who once established the Russian Navy spoke about the necessity of maintaining a balance in naval development. He said, "It must be understood what equipment is more effective in which area."

The president also pointed out, "In terms of submarines and large surface vessels, they not only have their own place, but they will undoubtedly remain the foundation of the entire Navy's development in the future."

Putin stated that submarines equipped with intercontinental ballistic missiles are crucial, as they can deter any adversary and inflict unbearable losses on opponents in the event of direct aggression against Russia.

TASS also reported that Russian President Putin, during a meeting with Navy personnel, stated that the improvement work on the "Zircon" hypersonic missile is still ongoing, and it is becoming increasingly precise.

The president said, "It is still undergoing improvements and needs to be closely monitored. But recent usage indicates that it is becoming increasingly precise."

Putin stated, "There are not many countries in the world that possess such weapons. And we not only have them, but we are also perfecting them, and we will continue to do so."

Putin also revealed that the development of the "Poseidon" unmanned underwater vehicle has entered the final stages. He said, "Regarding 'Poseidon,' we have talked about it multiple times. It is essentially an unmanned underwater vehicle, and it is already in the final stages of (development) here. We are moving towards completing (development) and putting it into combat duty."

Additionally, according to a report by the Russian Satellite News Agency on July 26, Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief Alexander Moiseyev reported to President Putin that by 2026, 20 ships will have been incorporated into the Russian Navy, with another 21 ships to be commissioned by the end of the year.

According to reports, Moiseyev said, "According to the Russian Navy's construction and development plan, by 2026, 20 ships will have been incorporated into the Russian Navy. By the end of this year, another 21 ships will be commissioned, including the 'Borey'-M class nuclear submarine 'Perm,' which is equipped with the 'Zircon' hypersonic missile system." (Translated by Zhao Zhipeng)