Weapons

Russia brandishes 'invincible' hypersonic missiles

Russia on Saturday announced it has fit 10 of its fighter jets on test combat duty with new air-launched hypersonic missiles that top officials say can dominate any missile defense system.

"It is a cutting-edge weapon, namely a hypersonic long-range missile capable of overcoming air and missile defenses," said Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov, according to TASS, Russia's state-run media outlet.

"It is invincible, having serious combat might and potential," he said. "The MIG-31 is its carrier as the jet is the most fitted for accelerating this missile to required speeds."

Borisov added the missiles are "ready for use."

Russia has been boasting of its military prowess as tensions with the U.S. have increased, largely over their competing military goals in Syria, but also sanctions the U.S. has imposed against Russia and Russian officials.

In March, Russia announced new nuclear missiles that it also said were "immune to any missile defense."