Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for a significant increase in the pace of weapons production over two years of war against Ukraine.
“We must double and triple our efforts in this direction,” he said Wednesday at a meeting with defense industry representatives.
Only by introducing next-generation weapons systems as quickly as possible will Russia be able to stay one step ahead of Ukraine in the war, he said.
He also justified the appointment of Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov as the new Defense Minister, saying there was a need for innovation and efficient management.
Putin said Russia spends just over 8.7% of its gross domestic product on armed forces and security. “This is a big budget. And we are obligated to use it carefully and effectively,” he said.
Belousov, 65, is tasked with integrating economic sectors that are important for security and the military into the global economy, Putin said.
At the same time, the Kremlin leader thanked the former Defense Minister Sergei Shoiguwho was also present, due to the restructuring of the army in recent years.
“Many things were not clear to us or to those involved in building the armed forces before the outbreak of hostilities,” but Shoigu managed to organize the army so that it was capable of meeting the demands of the time, he said. As secretary of the National Security Council, Shoigu will also be responsible for weapons issues in the future.
Experts believe that Putin also replaced his close confidant as defense minister because he was dissatisfied with the progress made by the Russian army in the war against Ukraine. The recent bribery scandals surrounding Shoigu are proof of the growing weakening of the politician’s position, they say.
