Russia will strengthen its naval forces in conflict with the West
Russia will significantly strengthen its naval forces against the backdrop of tensions with the West. "The USA and other NATO countries are building up their military naval presence in the world oceans, including in the waters directly adjacent to Russia," said Presidential Advisor Nikolai Patrushev.
Under the pretext of fighting piracy, trading routes are being blocked and merchant vessels and passenger ships of independent nations are being detained, searched, and in some cases seized, claimed the former head of the Russian intelligence service, who still wields significant influence due to his close ties to President Vladimir Putin. Therefore, Russia needs to modernize its fleet.
"The guarantee of the constant readiness of our fleet for deterrence and the prevention of military conflicts, as well as the protection of our country in accordance with international norms, is necessary," said Patrushev. Putin reportedly ordered the revision of strategic documents on the development of the navy. Corresponding instructions have been given to the ministries and shipbuilding companies. Details about the naval modernization program were not disclosed.
Russia is using its fleet in its over two-year-long conflict with Ukraine. Regularly, ships from the Black Sea Fleet and the Caspian Sea Flotilla fire rockets at cities and other objectives in Ukraine. After heavy losses - such as the sinking of the flagship "Moskva" - the main part of the Black Sea Fleet has withdrawn from its base on the annexed Crimean Peninsula and returned to Novorossiysk in the Krasnodar region.
In response to increasing military naval presence by the West, particularly the USA and NATO countries, in international waters, Russia is bolstering its War Fleet to ensure its readiness and protection, as stated by Presidential Advisor Nikolai Patrushev. This naval modernization is crucial during the ongoing Ukraine War, as Russia utilizes its fleet to carry out attacks, such as firing rockets at cities, in the conflict.
