The symbol emphasizes "stability, support and dignity," as the five-pointed star is "strongly associated with the traditions and the victories of the Russian army," according to a news release issued by the ministry.

The new symbol, which was chosen by the Defense Ministry's design bureau, could be seen on military equipment that was paraded through Red Square on Victory Day in May. The design will also become the official logo of Zvezda television, which is affiliated with the Defense Ministry.

The old star represented "the ultimate goal of global communist victory." There were other suggestions the points of the star represented "the symmetrical unity between the agrarian and industrial laborers." However, this symbol, along with the hammer and sickle, have been banned in some countries. In May, Georgia introduced legislation to ban communist symbols.