Putin vows more cash for Russia's nuclear defences

New Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin promised on Thursday to pay higher wages to members of the nuclear and air defense forces -- the pillars of national security -- and to create a special fund to finance it.

Military analysts say Russia badly needs to increase support for its intercontinental ballistic missiles, strategic bombers, nuclear submarines to ensure proper combat readiness, at a time when conventional forces are in a deep crisis.

"We must admit: the existing system of financial allowances ... does not let us honorably pay those carrying out their military duties in the most responsible jobs," Putin said in a speech to parliament after his nomination as prime minister.

Read more