"In November, in one of the military districts, we completed an experiment to establish a mixed regiment equipped with the modernized missile systems Buk M1-2 and Tor M1," Lt.-Gen. Nikolai Frolov said. "Tactical exercises with practical field firing were conducted."
He said modernized air defense systems are a great improvement over those currently deployed in Russia and abroad.
"In 2008, we will complete research and development work to upgrade the Osa missile system, which is capable of detecting moving aerial targets and destroy them at short range, as well as to deal with floating obstacles," the general said.
Frolov also said the currently used Strela-10 missile system will be replaced by a modernized system capable of operating in all weather conditions and at any time of day.
"In 2008, its development should be completed, and starting from 2009, deliveries to troops will begin," he said.
Russia will celebrate Air Defense Day December 13.
