Rarely a stranger to shows of extravagance and might, Russian president Vladimir Putin has already announced that he plans to showcase the country's first new Russian tank at the Moscow Victory Day Parade.
The tank, known as the T-14 Armata, was previously only displayed with its turret covered, but for the upcoming parade, it's expected to be shown off in full. It will also be the first public appearance for the T-14 Armata, according to the Sunday Times. Full images of the tank are also available online, courtesy of the Russian Defense Ministry.
Though unconfirmed, the T-14 Armata is thought to be superior to any tank belonging to other military forces, particularly because of its remote-controlled cannon and near impregnable armor, according to the Daily Mail. The T-14 Armata will be participating in trials beginning next year. It is also the first, new tank from Russia since the T-90, which was produced more than two decades ago back in 1993.
Along with the T-14 Armate, Russia is also expected to showcase other elements of their military arsenal during the Moscow Victory Day Parade. Also expected to be on display are the new intercontinental ballistic and air defense missiles the country has amassed, according to the Financial Times.
Russia is looking to show off its significant military might during the parade, but they will have to do so without many of their most important invited guests on hand. 26 world leaders have already accepted invitations to attend the Moscow Victory Day Parade, but not included in that list are numerous Western leaders, including the United States.
Tensions have continued to remain high between the West and Russia after the latter chose to annex part of Ukraine, a move condemned by many world leaders. Despite some of their guests choosing to pass on the proceedings, Russia is expected to go forward with the Moscow Victory Day Parade on May 9.
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