"These weapons are capable of challenging a new type of threat," the official said on condition of anonymity.

"We will not produce them on a massive scale. The will not be directed against neighbors."

He said the Russian military needs new weapons to meet the threats it faces, but insisted Moscow would not develop nuclear weapons for use against terrorists.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced last week that his country was prepared to develop a new generation of strategic weapons, but did not specify their nature.

Visiting Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov said Wednesday in Hawaii that Russia was prepared to cooperate with US plans to construct an antimissile shield under certain conditions.

Ivanov, now on a visit to Washington, said those conditions include guarantees neither country would use the defense shield against the other.

WAR.WIRE