Russia has revealed details of its ambitious plan to upgrade its army over the next ten years, planning to spend US$650 billion on the project.
The unveiled large-scale plans of the Russian defense ministry propose the spending of vast sums of money up to 2020.
First and foremost, Russian defense will focus on the development of strategic nuclear weapons, construction of over 100 military vessels for Russian Navy, including construction of four originally French-made Mistral-class amphibious assault ships, and the introduction into the Air Force of over 1,000 helicopters and 600 military planes, including fifth generation PAK-FA fighter.
Most of the military hardware will be equipped with next-generation weaponry.
Yes, the Russians, or the Soviets as they still should be called, are wasting money on their military. I do not call it Russian defense as their organization not is for defense.
The mindset of their military, including Putin and his entourage is to expand their army to “secure” their country, and bully their neighbors.
However, if we can make sure that the oil price is less than, say $80 - 90 /bbl, this behavior will be prevented.