Russia's Strategic Missile Force (RSVN) plans to test-fire 11 intercontinental ballistic missiles in 2013, after firing only five this year, its commander said on Friday, Dec 14, RIA Novosti reported.

"In 2013 we plan to fire 11 ICBMs with the main aim being the life-extension of existing missile systems and state acceptance trials of future systems," Col. Gen. Sergei Karakayev said.

A new automated battle management system (ASBU) is also being introduced for the RSVN which will allow rapid retargeting of ICBMs, he said.

"The RSVN is currently undertaking introduction of a fourth-generation automated battle management system, which, while undertaking the traditional role of authentication of commands, collating reports and controlling launch stations, will also guarantee automated alteration of plans and operational retargeting of missiles," he said.

By 2020, the whole of the RSVN will be equipped with modern digital communications, Karakayev added.