Russia shows off its military hardware with big parade through Red Square

Maxim Shemetov/Reuters

Russia put its military might on display Tuesday, showcasing its new missile defense systems designed for the Arctic, during an annual parade.

Commemorating the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, the parade was held in Moscow's Red Square. Smaller parades took place in Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine three years ago, and in Russia's Hmeimim air base in Syria.

Russia recently unveiled its second military base in the Arctic, where it's competing with the US, Canada and Norway for minerals newly uncovered by receding glaciers.

Columns of troops, tanks and intercontinental ballistic missile systems were also showcased during the parade.

Moldovan President Igor Dodon was the only foreign leader to attend the parade. In prior years, foreign dignitaries such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese President Xi Jinping had attended.

At one point, Putin addressed the crowd. "The Russian soldier today, as in all times, showing courage and heroism, is ready for any feat, for any sacrifice for the sake of his motherland and people."

Check out some of the photos below.