Russia announced that it has laser weapons in its army.

“We know that a number of countries are working on creating futuristic weapons based on new physical principles. And there are real grounds to believe that in every necessary case we will be one step ahead,” President Putin said.

Mr. Putin also explained that in creating hypersonic weapons, Russia has achieved significant results.

“This area is not just a theory or a project, we have simply started producing them. Since last year, the army has received a number of combat laser systems,” Putin said.

The Russian president did not disclose details about what type of laser weapon this was, but he noted that, “experts understand that the presence of new combat systems will expand Russia's capabilities in the field of its national security and defense.”

At the same time, a video was presented showing the new combat laser complex installed on a military vehicle.

Mr. Putin also asked those interested in weapons to suggest a name for the new weapon complex. Suggestions from Russian citizens for this weapon can be sent to the Russian Defense Ministry's website.

Military expert Viktor Murakhovsky believes that laser combat systems can perform air defense and anti-missile defense tasks.

“The use of laser beams will be more economical than using standard anti-missile defenses. Moreover, the accuracy of this type of weapon is also higher,” Viktor Murakhovsky told RIA Novostia news agency.

In addition, in his speech to the Russian Parliament, President Putin talked about the development of hypersonic weapons in recent times.

“We have started developing a new generation of missiles. Among them, we are actively testing a new missile system from heavy intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). We call it “Sarmat”. This missile system will replace “Voevod”, which was created in the former Soviet Union. The capabilities of “Sarmat” are much higher. The number and power of combat units are much higher than “Voevod”. This system can be used in any conditions and any situation,” Putin said.

Mr Putin also spoke about the development of new cruise missiles in Russia. Some of them will be able to fly at low altitudes and on an unpredictable trajectory. There will also be types equipped with nuclear engines and a similar form of energy, ensuring that they can fly indefinitely.

"Tests of the hypersonic aviation missile complex, which has no analogues in the world, have been completed. Since December 1, 2017, this complex has been performing pilot tasks in the Southern Military District. Its missiles fly at hypersonic speeds, are capable of maneuvering at all stages of their flight trajectory, which allows them to overcome any missile defense system. The system is called "Dagger" (Kinzhal)," Putin added.