The ground actually shuddered as the intercontinental ballistic missile launchers thundered past.

They were the final flourish of a 61-strong line-up of military hardware, and seeing the colossal Yars system up close was unnerving to say the least. And that's the point.

This was a demonstration of military might and menace. But those watching on in the Red Square lapped it up.

Perhaps it's no surprise they have been immersed in a narrative which presents these weapons of mass destruction as tools to secure peace. "It's wonderful," Olga told Sky News.

"We have a great country, we have a great army and, of course, a great people. "When our soldiers march across the square, our hearts beat in time with their steps." The crowd were offered blankets against the snow and icy wind.

While the parade offered a cloak of pomp and patriotism, as a means to justify Russia's current path of aggression. There were periodic roars of "hurrah" from the phalanxes of troops; goose-stepping soldiers marched with mesmerising precision; and the military bands pumped out war songs at a volume so loud one could feel the vibrations.

In his speech, Vladimir Putin portrayed Russia as an iron fist in a velvet glove. "Russia will do everything to prevent a global clash, but at the same time we will not allow anyone to threaten us.