Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigov at the board of the military department announced his intention to increase the number of Russian air defense forces.
Experts from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) write that one of the priorities for the development of the Russian Aerospace Forces is to create more units with modern air defense systems.
Shoigu noted that in 2023, Russian troops plan to form a new special-purpose anti-aircraft missile brigade, an anti-aircraft missile regiment with more modern S-350 systems and a military transport aviation regiment, as well as complete the modernization of Moscow’s air defense systems.
However, the Russian military is unlikely to be able to create such forces within a few years, not to mention the end of 2023, according to ISW.
The Russian defense industry has historically experienced years of delays in developing advanced air defense systems, even before the imposition of tough sanctions.
The formation of new Russian air defense units and airborne troops will not lead to an increase in Russia’s combat power in Ukraine this year, experts say.
Shoigu’s statement is likely intended to reassure the Russian people that the Ministry of Defense continues to develop the Russian armed forces and offset the perception of Russian military failures in Ukraine.
Source: Racurs
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