Russian President Vladimir Putin says his country is developing new-generation nuclear weapons technology - as part of a grand plan to boost the defence force.

During a televised question and answer session, Mr Putin said that Russia was in the process of developing completely new strategic missile technology.

The Russian President did not specify what kind of weapons, but he said Russia would focus on nuclear missiles, submarines, strategic bombers and conventional forces. He also said high-precision weaponry would be a priority.

Mr Putin described Russia's plans to modernise its defence force as grandiose but realistic. Hours before he spoke, state media announced that Russia had successfully test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile.

[http://abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/19/2064766.htm?section=world]