Putin focuses on artificial intelligence and laser technology for future military strategies

President Vladimir Putin has mandated extensive revisions to Russia‘s military strategy and production focus, prioritizing the rapid advancement of unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and laser technologies. This directive came after a significant meeting of the Russian military-industrial commission on April 23, which assessed the future trajectory of the nation’s armed forces, as reported by Komsomolskaya Pravda.

Putin noted that the defense sector is functioning at maximum capacity, successfully completing nearly all state defense orders from the previous year and surpassing certain goals. The president highlighted that over 4,000 armored vehicles, including tanks and personnel carriers, as well as 180 aircraft and helicopters, were supplied to the military in the last year.

Frontline units are reportedly receiving approximately 4,000 First-Person View (FPV) drones each day. However, Putin acknowledged a continuing deficit of drones on the battlefield, stating, ‘Our servicemen on the front line are eagerly awaiting these drones. They have become a decisive factor in today’s warfare.’

He underscored that the insights gained from the ongoing military operations, termed a ‘special military operation’ by Moscow, are fostering advancements in Russian military technology. ‘We are witnessing significant breakthroughs in military equipment,’ he remarked, noting that some innovations are ‘unique’ and ‘first of their kind globally.’

The president of Russia has initiated a comprehensive review of military training programs, mandating updates to the curricula at military academies and officer training schools. He emphasized the necessity for a complete revision of army field manuals, spanning from platoon to corps and combined-arms levels, to align with the significant shifts in battlefield strategies, particularly the reduced emphasis on tank assaults and the increasing prominence of drone warfare.

Looking to the future, Putin has instructed defense strategists to anticipate the evolution of warfare over the next five, ten, and fifteen years. He remarked, ‘Military evolution is accelerating.’ Additionally, he highlighted the critical role of space-based assets, advocating for the establishment of a satellite network capable of delivering encrypted communications, reconnaissance, and early-warning functions in contested areas.

‘Satellites are now central to all warfare,’ he stated. Regarding the development of advanced weaponry, Putin has prioritized the rapid advancement of robotic systems, unmanned maritime vehicles, and laser-based air defense technologies.

‘Light travels at unmatched speed,’ he noted, implying that laser weapons could become fundamental to Russia’s future air defense capabilities. He concluded by mentioning undisclosed ‘ace card’ systems currently being developed at Russian research institutions and design bureaus, urging, ‘We must carefully evaluate these projects and avoid premature abandonment.’