Russian army ready for modernization

Over 19 trillion rubles were provided for modernization of the Russian army in December, according to Deputy Defense Minister Vladimir Popovkin. He said that the the strategic nuclear forces are the main priority. 8 strategic atomic submarines will be ready by 2020, armed with Bulava ICBMs. Tu-160 planes will also be modernized, RIA Novosti reports.

The Orbital group will take part in the development. Popovkin was the former commander of Russian Space Forces.

The new armament program until 2020 will see 80% of the finances spent on purchases of new arms and 10% on scientific research, the deputy minister said.

He noted that 2 trillion rubles will be spent on scientific research on development of new arms. Russia is negotiating with France to purchase advanced Felin infantry equipment, which includes weapons, ammunition, body armour, a helmet with two displays and a microphone, means of communication and data exchange and other high-tech gadgets.

Popovkin said that the new state program involves development of an analogue of “Equipment-2020”. The analogue needs to be of the same quality as US, German and other types of equipment.

Russia concluded a deal with Iveco (Italy) to organize production of the company's armoured vehicle in Russia. It is one of the most protected vehicles in the world.