The Russian army will have “major changes” in the period of 2023-2026 to improve the combat capabilities of all branches.
Russia’s Defense Ministry announced on January 17 that it would carry out “major changes” to the military in the period 2023-2026, committing to structural reforms. Accordingly, in addition to administrative reform, the Russian military will strengthen the combat capabilities of the navy, air force, and strategic missiles.
“Only by strengthening the main elements of the military can we ensure the security of the country, protect new entities, as well as important Russian facilities,” said Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. know.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stressed that these changes are necessary because Russia is confronting Western-backed Ukraine, which constantly supplies weapons.
Last month, Minister Shoigu proposed to expand the size of the army from the current 1 million to 1.5 million. He also proposed increasing Russia’s mandatory military service age to be able to recruit Russian citizens between the ages of 21 and 30. In addition, the Russian military will establish new units in the western part of the country. in response to Finland and Sweden’s plans to join NATO.
Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine at the end of February 2022 with a statement to “demilitarize” and “de-fascistize” the neighboring country. In September, President Vladimir Putin issued a decree to mobilize 300,000 reservists to supplement forces for the operation. Moscow also changed the commander-in-chief a number of times.
