--- title: "The 7 scariest weapons Russia is developing right now" description: "While Russia's military is struggling in many ways, the Kremlin is working hard to fix it. With a new [ballistic missiles](), [new submarines launching from shipyards](), and the [world's newest tank](), Russia looks to be modernizing as fast as it…" date: "2018-04-02" modified: "2020-10-21" authors: - name: "Logan Nye" job_title: "Senior Contributor, Army Veteran" link: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/authors/logan-nye/" url: "https://www.wearethemighty.com/articles/russian-weapons/" categories: - "Military News" - "Tactical" - "Weapons" tags: - "Russia" --- # The 7 scariest weapons Russia is developing right now ![]() While Russia's military is struggling in many ways, the Kremlin is working hard to fix it. With a new [ballistic missiles](), [new submarines launching from shipyards](), and the [world's newest tank](), Russia looks to be modernizing as fast as it can. If the modernization program survives Russia's economic woes, here are seven new weapon systems that will likely be completed. --- ### 1. New nuclear submarines ![]() *A current-generation Russian diesel submarine. Photo: Wikimedia Commons/ Russian International News Agency (RIA Novosti)* In addition to building [more of their brand new, fourth-generation submarines](), Russia is already [planning a fifth-generation sub](). Details on the fifth-generation are slowly being fleshed out, but Russia wants the subs to network with each other and underwater drones, use onboard robotics for certain tasks, and feature a new nuclear reactor. ### 2. Hypersonic missiles ![]() *A model of the BrahMos II, Russian-Indian hypersonic missile under joint development. Photo: Youtube.com* Russia's hypersonic missile program has been [plagued by failed tests](), but it still has potential. The Yu-71 would be able to fly unpredictable patterns to its targets at speeds of 7,000 miles per hour, piercing air defenses. While the U.S. also has a hypersonic program, the U.S. missiles are designed for conventional warheads while Russia's call for [nuclear capabilities](). Russia is also jointly-developing the BrahMos II hypersonic cruise missile with India. ### 3. A stealthy, heavy-lift strategic bomber ![]() *Russia's new bomber will borrow technology from its new fighter, the Sukhoi T-50. Photo: Wikipedia/Alex Beltyukov* The PAK-DA is [expected to be]() subsonic with a range of 7,500 miles and capable of carrying a payload of about 30 tons. It's a huge step down from Russia's original plans for a hypersonic bomber, but it may be [stealthy enough to get cruise missiles]() into range against carriers and other targets. ### 4. An "off switch" for enemy communications and weapons guidance An [electronic warfare system in development]() supposedly allows Russia to [shut off any approaching threats](), everything from NATO ships to missiles to future hypersonic weapons. If successfully launched on planes and ships, it could also be used to shut down enemy defenses during a Russian attack. ### 5. New air defense missiles ![]() *Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Aleksey Toritsyn* While the S-300 is [in the news]() right now, the S-500 would be two generations beyond it. [The S-500]() is expected to be capable of engaging five to ten ballistic missiles at once and even hitting low-orbit satellites. It will be able to move between engagements, avoiding counter attacks. ### 6. Lasers ![]() *The USS Ponce's laser weapon. Photo: YouTube* Russia claims its [laser program is on the same level]() as the U.S., but the system is fully classified. If accurate, it would mean that Russia's lasers are capable or nearly capable of taking out [enemy vehicles](), [drones, and boats](), all weapons systems America relies on. ### 7. Aircraft carriers ![]() *The current Russian carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov. Photo: Mil.ru* Russia's carrier prospects are dicey, but if the ship makes it to the sea it will be much better than their current carrier. [Roughly the same size as a U.S. Nimitz carrier](), it would have 4 launching positions and an air wing of 80-90 aircraft. ### NOW: [A Russian company is selling shipping containers packed with cruise missiles ]() ## Author Logan was an Army journalist and paratrooper in the 82nd. Now, he's a freelance writer covering military history, culture, and technology. He has two upcoming podcasts and a Twitch channel focused on basic military literacy. ### Author social links [Twitter]() [Facebook]()