Russian President Vladimir Putin has hailed the Poseidon underwater vehicle and the Burevestnik nuclear-powered missile as groundbreaking military technologies that will ensure Russia’s strategic parity well into the 21st century.

His remarks came during an award ceremony honoring the developers of the systems.

Putin emphasized Poseidon’s superior performance, stating that its underwater speed significantly outpaces all existing surface ships.

“As for the speeds, they are several times greater than that of all modern surface ships,” he said.

Putin added that the unmanned underwater vehicle can dive to depths of up to 1,000 meters, using cutting-edge materials and components developed specifically for the platform.

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Burevestnik and Poseidon ensure Russia’s security

Putin described both Poseidon and Burevestnik as systems of “historical significance” for Russia.

“The result that you have achieved has, without exaggeration, historical significance for our people. It ensures security and strategic parity for decades to come, for the entire XXI century,” he told the developers.

The president said only domestic materials were used in their production and stressed the potential for these technologies to influence not just military advancements but also civilian innovation.

“In terms of flying range, Burevestnik is known to have surpassed all known missile systems in the world,” Putin added.

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Advancing nuclear and strategic capabilities

Putin reiterated that Russia, like other nuclear powers, continues to enhance its nuclear and strategic arsenal.

“Russia, like all other nuclear powers, is developing its nuclear potential, developing its strategic potential, everything we are talking about now is work that has been announced for a long time,” he said.

Putin confirmed that the testing of both weapons systems had been long-planned and publicly known. He also noted the presence of a NATO reconnaissance vessel near the Burevestnik test area.

“We did not interfere with his operations. Let them watch,” Putin said.

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Civilian applications: Mining and arctic power

The Russian leader also highlighted the dual-use potential of nuclear technology developed for Poseidon and Burevestnik.

“The small size, weight, and volume of the nuclear installations, along with their safety and reliability, allow them to be flexibly used to create energy sources for mineral extraction in hard-to-reach areas, including the Arctic shelf,” Putin said.

He noted that the systems could also provide light, heat, and energy to remote territories and enhance the efficiency of underwater exploration missions.

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Oreshnik missile system enters mass production

Putin also announced that Russia has begun mass production of the Oreshnik medium-range missile system, another key part of the country’s evolving defense infrastructure.

“We have created and put on duty, and have begun mass production of the Oreshnik medium-range missile system,” he said, emphasizing that Russia remains committed to peace and is “not a threat to anyone.”

Putin also confirmed that the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile will be placed on combat duty next year, adding, “All of Russia's plans are being fulfilled.”

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