Russian leader Vladimir Putin announced on Thursday that Russia’s navy is expected to receive more than 40 vessels this year, with the upgrades aiming to significantly enhance its combat potential. This move comes as Russia has been working to bolster its navy following significant losses during its war against Ukraine.
During a meeting on shipbuilding issues, Putin highlighted the progress that has been made in this area, emphasizing the acquisition of new ships by the Russian navy. The country is set to surpass the number of ships and boats received in previous years, with the upgrades forming part of a larger plan to comprehensively enhance the navy’s capabilities.
The boost in naval capacity will involve upgrading ship, aircraft, and coastal components, as well as infrastructure at naval bases. Putin stressed that these improvements will strengthen Russia’s presence in strategically important regions of the world ocean and significantly enhance its combat potential.
Since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia’s navy has faced substantial losses, with Adm. Sir Tony Radakin of the UK’s armed forces stating that a quarter of Russia’s vessels in the Black Sea had been sunk or damaged by Ukraine. The impact of Putin’s actions in Ukraine has taken a toll on Russia’s navy, rendering its Black Sea Fleet essentially inactive.
As of now, Russia’s defense ministry has not responded to requests for comments on the naval upgrades outside of regular business hours. These enhancements to the Russian navy mark a significant step towards reinforcing the country’s naval capabilities and presence on the global stage.