20 Apr 2010 12:55

Production in Russian defense industry up 13% - Putin

MOSCOW. April 20 (Interfax) - The Russian defense industry witnessed production growth last year despite the global economic crisis, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said.

"Last year's grim forecasts made by some politicians who predicted a collapse of the [Russian] defense industry have not eventuated. The output of military products went up almost 13% in 2009, while the total [production] decreased," Putin said in his address to the State Duma.

Putin said the shipbuilding industry grew by 31.6% in 2009, the rocket and space industry grew by 16.5%, and aviation grew by 9%".