Other measures will include the modernization of existing surface-to-air missile systems and the provision of advanced S-400 and S-500 air defense systems, “capable of reliably protecting critical installations against air and missile attacks,” he said.

That will significantly enhance the survivability of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces, he added.

Priority in the organizational development of Russia’s armed forces through 2020 will be given to the strategic nuclear forces and the aerospace defense system, Gerasimov said.

Russia’s Strategic Missile Forces will continue to be equipped with advanced Yars ballistic missile systems featuring higher capabilities in overriding enemy missile defense systems, he said.

In mid-June, Russia’s prototype medium-range air defense system that should replace the S-300 was demonstrated to President Vladimir Putin. The Vityaz system, manufactured by the Almaz-Antei corporation, which will have a more advanced radar and a launcher with 16 missiles, compared with only four on the S-300, should enter service next year, Almaz-Antei chief designer Igor Ashurbeili previously told RIA Novosti.

The Vityaz will complement the Morfey, S-400 and S-500 air defense systems in Russia’s future aerospace defense network to engage targets at ranges from five to 400 kilometers, and at altitudes from five meters to near outer space.