Russia is turning its Military into a High-tech Arsenal

In 2026, Russia’s military-industrial complex is set to introduce a new wave of weapons systems across nearly every domain of warfare.

A number of long-running projects are expected to reach key testing stages or enter service, while others will appear in updated configurations shaped by recent operational experience.

Together, these developments offer a useful snapshot of where Russian military technology is headed in the near term.

RT provides an overview of the most significant platforms and systems that are likely to define the next stage of modernization for Russia’s armed forces – from strategic missiles and submarines to air defense systems, combat aircraft, and unmanned technologies.

These programs reflect a consistent focus on survivability, automation, and asymmetric advantage, as well as a clear intent to integrate new solutions rapidly into active service.

Seen in this light, the developments expected in 2026 are best understood not as speculative prototypes, but as practical upgrades intended for immediate use by Russia’s strategic forces, navy, air force, and ground troops.

    Fifth-generation aircraft: The Su-75 checkmate

The first flight of the new single-seat, single-engine supersonic fifth-generation fighter, known as the Su-75 Checkmate, is expected in 2026.

The mock-up was first unveiled at the MAKS Air Show in August 2021. Following construction, the aircraft is preparing for test flights.

The Su-75 holds tremendous export potential and is a highly sought-after addition to the Russian Air Force’s front-line fleet.

This aircraft will replace the MiG-29. In the global market, it will compete with contemporary 4++ generation aircraft like the F-16 and others.

The Su-75 is designed to be stealthy, maneuverable, and supersonic. Its versatility makes it suitable for both air-to-air combat and strike missions. This will be the first single-engine jet fighter built in Russia.

Fighters of this class (i.e. MiG-21’s and MiG-23’s) were produced in the Soviet Union and formed the backbone of the USSR’s front-line fighter aircraft for many years.

   Strategic underwater Project 09851 Khabarovsk

The Khabarovsk, a new Project 09851 nuclear-powered submarine constructed by the Sevmash company in Severodvinsk, is expected to begin sea trials in 2026.

The Khabarovsk is no usual submarine – it will serve as the main carrier of Poseidon nuclear-powered unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV’s) which are already undergoing testing.

Currently, the submarine Belgorod is involved in these tests, but the Khabarovsk will serve as the primary carrier of the UUV’s. Six launchers for Poseidon UUV’s will be installed in the bow of the submarine, and it can also be equipped with torpedo weapons for self-defense.

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The technical solutions used in the construction of the Khabarovsk submarine draw on the developments for another strategic Russian submarine – the Borei-A project.

This ensures the successful completion, testing, and adoption of the submarine with the unique Poseidon system into the Russian Navy.

   Next-generation Missiles: Replacing the Topol-M

This year, we can also expect test launches of new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). In 2026-2027, they could begin to replace Topol-M missiles deployed in the late 1990’s.

Both silo-based and mobile-launched missile versions are likely to be tested.

While the specific capabilities of these new missiles remain unknown, it is reasonable to assume they will utilize more advanced solid propellant technology and potentially feature guided hyper-sonic warheads instead of traditional ballistic warheads.

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Unlike the payloads of Avangard missiles, these warheads could represent a second generation of ICBM hyper-sonic equipment.

  Sarmat: The Flagship of Russia’s Nuclear Forces

The heavy liquid-fueled Sarmat ICBM is set to enter the final phase of its flight testing program. Once this stage is complete, the missile will be officially adopted into service and deployed within Russia’s Strategic Rocket Forces division based in Uzhur.

Sarmat will replace the older Voevoda ICBM which was developed in the late 1980’s.

In terms of energy capabilities, Sarmat surpasses the Voevoda and any other ICBM worldwide; it will likely carry multiple payload options, including at least 10-14 conventional ballistic warheads or several Product 4202-class hyper-sonic gliding warheads utilized in the Avangard system.

Its combat capabilities will make Sarmat the flagship of Russia’s nuclear deterrent forces.

Hyper-sonic strike @ Sea: Zircon & the Yasen-M fleet

The Zircon air-launched ballistic missile has proven itself in the Russian military operation in Ukraine, and production is expected to ramp up in 2026. Efforts are certainly underway to modernize these missiles.

The K-572 Perm nuclear submarine of the Yasen-M 885M project, which is currently undergoing trials and is expected to enter service in 2026, will be equipped with new Zircon missiles.

This submarine will be the first operational platform to carry the underwater-launch variant of the Zircon missile. All Yasen-M class submarines that are currently under construction will also be supplied with these missiles.

Eventually, earlier models of the Yasen class will be upgraded as well; this will significantly enhance the anti-ship and anti-aircraft capabilities of the Russian Navy.

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   Admiral Nakhimov, heavy surface Combat Power

In 2026, the heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov will continue sea trials and could even complete them. We can expect demonstrations of its capability to launch Zircon hypersonic missiles alongside other weapon systems.

Once fully operational, Admiral Nakhimov is set to become the most powerful warship in the Russian Navy and one of the most heavily armed surface combatants in the world.

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 Strategic air and missile defense: S-500 Prometheus

Deployment of the S-500 Prometheus missile system will continue this year. Currently, this is Russia’s most advanced anti-ballistic missile system, capable of countering virtually any ballistic missile threat.

These unique systems are expected to be positioned in high-risk areas and near critical sites that require robust protection against aerial attacks or threats from near space.

Countering Drones FPV interceptors and AI systems

Several types of intercept drones are being developed for the Russian Ground Forces. These drones are designed to protect against enemy FPV drones along the front lines.

The creation of FPV interceptors utilizing AI in their control systems will ensure effective detection and guaranteed engagement of enemy kamikaze drones.

Importantly, the cost of this solution should be significantly lower than that of missiles for air defense systems. This urgent challenge can be addressed through the implementation of advanced digital systems in the mass production of drones.

RT. com / ABC Flash Point News 2026.