Russia rolled out air defence systems built to operate in sub-zero Arctic conditions on Tuesday as it showcased its military might at a parade on Moscowโs Red Square.
The parade, an annual event commemorating the Soviet Unionโs victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, took place under grey skies as President Vladimir Putin looked on from a platform alongside Soviet war veterans.
The Kremlin has been flexing its military muscle in the hydrocarbon-rich Arctic region, as it vies for dominance with rivals Canada, the United States and Norway.
โLessons of the past war remind us to be vigilant, and the Armed Forces of Russia are capable of repelling any potential aggression,โ Putin told the parade.
โBut for an effective battle with terrorism, extremism, neo-Nazism and other threats the whole international community needs to be consolidated. โฆ We are open for such cooperation.โ
An aerial show by Russiaโs air force, including warplanes that have flown missions to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assadโs army, was cancelled because of low visibility.
Smaller parades were held in cities across Russia, in Ukraineโs Crimea Peninsula, which Russia annexed three years ago, as well as at Russiaโs Hmeimim air base in Syria.
Moldovan President Igor Dodon was the only foreign dignitary to attend the Moscow parade. In prior years, leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese President Xi Jinping had attended.
Tuesdayโs parade was the first time Russia had showcased its Tor-M and Pantsir SA air defence systems, painted in the white and black colours of the countryโs Arctic forces.
Also on display were columns of troops, tanks and Russiaโs Yars intercontinental ballistic missile system.
Putin said: โThe Russian soldier today, as in all times, showing courage and heroism, is ready for any feat, for any sacrifice for the sake of his motherland and people.โ