By RIA Novosti,
Vilyuchinsk (Russia) : Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev Thursday called for faster modernization of the armed forces and improvement of service conditions in view of the perceived security threats.
“We have a general development plan, but even it needs amending,” Dmitry Medvedev said, adding that due to external pressures, its implementation has to be accelerated.
Two important aspects of the proposed modernization are advanced weaponry and equipment and improving social and financial status of the services personnel.
“First, modernization of the armed forces, and secondly, improving the status of the military serviceman, including higher wages, good quality housing, and an appropriate social security package” are the two aims of military reforms, he said.
Asked whether the world financial crisis could affect Russia’s military development programmes, he said the country had a stable, self-sufficient economy and ample resources for the military.
“Regardless of crises, we must keep building new submarines,” he said.