CBC NewsReports in Russian news media have suggested Russia is developing a nuclear missile that could carry up to 10 nuclear warheads weighing a total of four tonnes, and a mobile version of its Topol-M ballistic missile.
The Topol-M has a range of 10,000 kilometres, and have been deployed in silos since 1998. They reportedly can manoeuvre in ways that are difficult to detect.
Since taking office, Putin has often vowed to restore Russia's military power.
The latest comments come ahead of this weekend's summit of the Asian Pacific Economic Co-operation organization, where Putin is expected to meet with U.S. President George W. Bush.
A new arms race?