The development of state-of-the-art robots capable of operating in outer space will begin in Russia this year, media reports said.

Russian scientists will begin the development of sophisticated robots capable of operating in outer space later in 2016, according to media reports.

A source in the country's space industry said that at least three of these robots will be built in Russia by 2025.

"The three space robots will be constructed before the end of 2014. They will be able to perform various operations outside the International Space Station," the source said.

More than 2.5 billion rubles will be allocated for the implementation of the project.

According to the source, the scientists must solve the problem of allowing mechatronic systems to survive prolonged exposure to cosmic radiation and drastic temperature changes.

A multi-purpose robotic system in the form of an android-type 200-kilogram robot is expected to be created, the source said, adding that the android will be remotely controlled by an astronaut.

Earlier, it was reported that about 1.4 trillion rubles from Russia's state budget will be earmarked for the implementation of the space robotics program.