A picture of the Tor-M2DT autonomous short-range anti-aircraft missile system is posted on the website of the Russian Defense Ministry.

MOSCOW, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- Russian troops in the country's far north and the Arctic will be equipped with the Tor-M2DT autonomous short-range anti-aircraft missile system in 2018, the Defense Ministry said Tuesday.

The decision was announced by Alexander Leonov, Chief of the Russian Land Force's Air Defense Lieutenant.

The Tor-M2DT system adapted to severe climatic conditions is intended to operate at extremely low temperature and difficult terrain, the ministry statement read.

Russia is strengthening defense forces in the Arctic as it has stepped up efforts to exploit resources in the region and explore a polar shipping route.