Putin calls for increasing proportion of advanced weapons in Navy to 70% soon
SEVASTOPOL. Jan 9 (Interfax) - Russia must build up its status as a marine power in the twenty-first century, Russian President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces Vladimir Putin said.
"The Navy has always been and remains the most important, if not key, component in ensuring national defense and security. We should retain and strengthen the status of our country as one of the leading marine powers in the twenty-first century," Putin said at a meeting with key personnel of the Defense Ministry and the High Command of the Russian Navy.
The Navy has been given heightened attention in recent years, and substantial resources and funds have been allocated for these purposes, he said.
"We will continue to seek the Navy's being modern and equipped at a state-of-the-art level," Putin said.
Issues concerning the Navy's modernization were discussed at the latest series of conferences dealing with military matters in December, he said. "Reinforcing sea-based strategic nuclear forces was discussed," Putin said.
The proportion of advanced weaponry and military hardware in the Navy must reach 70% in the near future, he said.
"Not only should this figure be reached, it should be maintained," Putin said.