2026 is not shaping up to be just another year of deliveries for the Russian defense industry. It appears to be transforming into a year of demonstrating strategic power. Following the completion of 2025 contracts, leading Russian manufacturers of weapons and military equipment have already begun implementing the new year's programs, with the message being clear: Moscow is not only investing in mass production, but also in weapons of depth, deterrence, and long-term dominance.
As everything indicates, in 2026 the Russian military will continue to receive known and proven assets—T-90M tanks, Su-34 fighters, AK-12 rifles, drones, and artillery systems. However, at the same time, the entry into service of weapon systems that were not designed for "the next battle," but for the next era of warfare is expected: nuclear submarines, heavy surface ships, and new aviation programs.
The first carrier of the Poseidons
In November 2025, the nuclear-powered submarine Khabarovsk was launched, one of the most talked-about vessels of the Russian Navy. The reason is clear: it is the first submarine of Project 09851 designed from the outset as a carrier for the Poseidon nuclear-powered underwater drones. According to estimates, the Khabarovsk can carry up to six Poseidons—weapon systems designed to cause unacceptable destruction to an opponent's coastal areas. In 2026, it is expected to begin its sea trials and, if completed successfully, to join the fleet by the end of the year, with full operational deployment in 2027.
Yasen-M with Zircon: A hypersonic threat
The nuclear-powered submarine Perm, the sixth vessel of Project 885M Yasen-M, was launched in December 2025 and is considered the first "standard" carrier of the Zircon hypersonic missiles. The Perm can carry up to 32 Zircons, with an estimated range of 1,000 kilometers and speeds reaching up to Mach 9, making their interception extremely difficult for existing air defense systems. According to Russian Navy sources, the submarine is expected to be delivered within 2026.
New landing power in the Pacific
The surface fleet is being strengthened with the large landing ship Vladimir Andreyev (Project 11711M), which was launched in May 2025 and is intended for the Pacific Fleet. The ship is expected to be delivered in 2026. Vessels of this class can transport 300 troops or 13 heavy armored vehicles, as well as up to five helicopters. Their armament includes close-in defense systems and AK-630M-2 artillery.
The grand return of the "Admiral Nakhimov"
Perhaps the most symbolic development of 2026 will be the return of the nuclear-powered cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov," which has been undergoing modernization since 1999. The ship has already completed the first stage of sea trials and is expected to be delivered to the fleet within the year. The modernization has transformed it into a multi-role platform, with 80 launchers of the 3S14 system capable of carrying Kalibr and Oniks missiles, drastically changing its operational profile.
Su-75 Checkmate: The aviation bet - Single-engine "Chess Player"
The single-engine fifth-generation fighter Su-75 Checkmate is expected to perform its first flight in early 2026. It is designed as a lightweight, economical, and exportable fighter that will gradually replace the MiG-29 and work complementarily with the Su-57. Rostec has already begun preparations for production, while changes have been made to the original design based on data from recent years.
T-90M2 and the experience of the front
Unofficial information speaks of a new modification of the T-90 main battle tank, the T-90M2, with improved mobility, increased reverse speed, and an upgraded combat compartment with large digital displays. Production of a pilot batch may begin within 2026.
Krona-E: Anti-aircraft shield against drones
The new anti-aircraft system Krona-E, designed specifically for countering UAVs, successfully completed its trials and is expected to move into serial production in 2026. It carries Sosna-R and 9M333 missiles, features dual-band radar, and can be deployed in just ten minutes.
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