Russia’s Strategic Missile Forces will use a new-generation automated command and control system from 2016, the Defense Ministry said Thursday, Sept 19, according to RIA Novosti.

The new system, based on the digital transmission of operations orders bypassing intermediary levels straight to the launch pad, allows the prompt targeting and retargeting of missiles and ensures the effective command and control of all units and subunits, Defense Ministry spokesman Dmitry Andreyev said.

The fifth-generation system will use wire, radio and satellite communication channels that are well protected from jamming and other forms of interference, he added.

The system is compact and reliable and boasts low energy consumption, secure information transmission and imperviousness to external impacts, the spokesman said.