Putin urges Russian navy to prioritize nuclear force buildup

Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting of the guardian council of the Russian Geographic Society at its headquarters in St Petersburg, Russia, April 24, 2017. [Photo/Agencies]

MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday demanded the Russian navy to prioritize the development of strategic nuclear forces and modernize its weaponry.

"As of the end of 2016, the share of modern weapons and equipment in the navy was about 47 percent ... The rate should be raised to 70 percent by 2020," Putin said at a meeting of the Military Industry Commission, according to a Kremlin statement.

According to him, the Russian navy should prioritize the development of strategic nuclear forces, modern weaponry and supporting infrastructure.

"Russia should ensure the presence of its naval forces in all strategically important areas of the world oceans," said Putin.