February 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News

Poroshenko: Nemtsov Killed Over Plan To Reveal Moscow Links To Ukraine Conflict RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says Russian opposition politician and Kremlin critic Boris Nemtsov was killed because he was going to reveal evidence of Moscow's involvement in the separatist conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Inside And Outside Russia, Condemnation Of Nemtsov Slaying RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- The killing of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov has drawn condemnation from Russian politicians, world leaders, and international rights organizations who were unanimous in their calls for the perpetrators of the crime to swiftly caught and brought to justice.
Putin Vows To 'Do Everything' To Catch Nemtsov's Killers RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to 'do everything so that the organizations and perpetrators of the vile and cynical' murder of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov are brought to justice.
Boris Nemtsov: 'We Must Free Russia From Putin' RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- Slain opposition politician Boris Nemtsov was looking ahead to a planned March 1 opposition rally, though in an interview with RFE/RL's Russian Service earlier this month, he portrayed the demonstration as just a first step in a long struggle.
Russia's Milestones Are Gravestones RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- When Boris Nemtsov was gunned down on a bridge near the Kremlin on February 27, the opposition figure joined a grim list of prominent Russians killed in the Vladimir Putin era.
Boris Nemtsov, A Russian Political 'Golden Boy' Who Battled Putin, Dead At 55 RFE/RL 28 Feb 2015 -- Boris Nemtsov, a fiery critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin and a former first deputy prime minister once seen as a possible successor to former President Boris Yeltsin, has been killed in Moscow. He was 55.
Could Nemtsov Threaten Putin in Death as in Life? VOA 28 Feb 2015 -- With the murder of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, gunned down on a Moscow street, the fiercest critic of President Vladimir Putin has been removed from the political stage. But it remains to be seen whether, in death as in life, Nemtsov will remain a threat to Putin's rule.
Moscow Prepares for March Commemorating Russian Opposition Leader VOA 28 Feb 2015 -- Authorities are preparing for tens of thousands to march in central Moscow Sunday in memory of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, who was shot to death late Friday after urging people to protest Russian President Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine.
Russia to Assess Consequences of NATO Buildup for National Security - Envoy Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Moscow will independently assess how the NATO military buildup in the east affects Russia's security concerns, Russia's envoy to NATO Alexander Grushko said.
Who Mr. Nemtsov Was and Why He Was Killed Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- People's Freedom Party) since 2012 and was also one of the leaders of the liberal Solidarnost movement.
Investigators Check Possible Links of Nemtsov's Murder to Ukrainian Events Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Investigators of the murder of Russian politician Boris Nemtsov consider possible links to events in Ukraine, among other versions, the Russian Investigative Committee said in a statement Saturday.
Russia's Arctic Brigades to Get Cutting-Edge Equipment Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Arctic brigades will receive state-of-the-art equipment, developed or modernized taking into account regional specifics, according to the commander-in-chief of Russia's ground forces.
Russian Politician Boris Nemtsov Killed in Moscow Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov was shot to death in central Moscow late Friday.
Putin Considers Nemtsov's Murder Provocation, Expresses Condolences Sputnik 28 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin considers the murder of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov and a provocative act, most likely an ordered killing, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said.
Russian Opposition Politician Boris Nemtsov Shot Dead In Moscow RFE/RL 27 Feb 2015 -- Boris Nemtsov, a prominent Russian opposition politician and former deputy prime minister, has been shot dead in Moscow.
Russian Opposition Leader Murdered in Moscow VOA 27 Feb 2015 -- Major Russian opposition leader and former deputy prime minister Boris Nemtsov was shot dead Friday night in central Moscow.
Soyuz-2.1a Rocket Takes Military Satellite to Designated Orbit Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- A Soyuz-2.1a carrier rocket put a military satellite into its designated orbit Friday, a defense ministry spokesman, Col. Alexei Zolotukhin, told RIA Novosti.
Russian Finance Ministry Gives Gloomy 2015 Forecast RFE/RL 27 Feb 2015 -- Russia Finance Ministry officials have announced a series of measures that they say the country needs to take as they delivered sobering news about the state of Russia's economy.
Russia's Baltic Fleet Conducts Firing Drills Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- The large amphibious ship Korolev and the small-size missile ship Passat of the Russian Baltic Fleet successfully performed gun practice at sea in low visibility conditions, the press office of the Western Military District reported in a statement.
Russia Will Continue Advanced Weapon Development Despite Economic Crisis Sputnik 27 Feb 2015 -- The economic difficulties that Russia is currently facing will not cause any reduction in the development of advanced weapons, the deputy chairman of the Russian Military-Industrial Commission said Friday.
Russia Says Sanctions Threats Aimed To Whip Up Hysteria RFE/RL 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov lashed out at U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and other Western officials on February 26 over threats to impose further sanctions against Moscow if it does not alter its conduct in Ukraine.
Russia Slams West Over Ukraine Sanction Threats VOA 26 Feb 2015 -- Russia warned Western countries against imposing more sanctions on Moscow, saying such threats show the West is opposed to following through on a truce for eastern Ukraine.
Kerry accuses Putin of 'destabilizing' Ukraine Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2015 -- The United States has accused Russia once more of 'destabilizing' Ukraine and warned of additional sanctions if Moscow fails to meet the terms of a recent ceasefire agreement.
West unwilling to facilitate peace in Ukraine: Russian FM Iran Press TV 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the threats by Western countries to impose new sanctions on Moscow over the Ukrainian crisis are indicative of their reluctance to facilitate peace in east Ukraine.
Purportedly Leaked Document 'Shows Kremlin Had Advance Plan To Seize Crimea' RFE/RL 26 Feb 2015 -- The Russian daily newspaper Novaya Gazeta has published a plan - allegedly given to the Kremlin two weeks before President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted last year - calling for Russia to 'foment separatism' in eastern Ukraine and seize Crimea.
Russia Signs Military Deal With EU Member State Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian navy ships will now have access to stop off at ports in Cyprus, while Moscow will continue to provide the Mediterranean country with debt relief, following an agreement by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades.
Military Drills Get Underway in Russia With 1,500 Paratroopers Taking Part Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- Approximately 1,500 paratroopers are participating in military exercises in the Kostroma region in Central Russia, a Russian Defense Ministry source said Thursday.
Russian Fighter Jets Kick Off Air Missile Drills Above Barents Sea Sputnik 26 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Central Military District's MiG-31 Foxhound interceptor aircraft are conducting military drills over the Barents Sea, testing responses to air missile strikes, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
Russian warplanes' flights carried out in accordance with international practice – Kremlin TASS 26 Feb 2015 -- Russian military planes carry out flights over neutral waters in accordance with international practice, Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told CNN in a telephone interview broadcast on Wednesday.
Russian warships allowed at ports of Cyprus for humanitarian purposes – president TASS 26 Feb 2015 -- Cyprus' permission for Russian warships to call at the ports of the Mediterranean country was issued as an extension to a previously concluded agreement and not the new one, Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said on Thursday.
Sanctions Having a Mixed Effect on Russia, Officials Say AFPS 25 Feb 2015 -- U.S. and European sanctions imposed on Russia for its support of Ukrainian separatists and the annexation of Crimea are having a significant impact on Russia's economy but have not curtailed Moscow's continued intervention in the region, two senior Defense Department officials told Congress today.
Russia, Cyprus sign military cooperation agreement Iran Press TV 25 Feb 2015 -- Russia and Cyprus have signed a military cooperation deal, under which Russian navy ships will be permitted to make regular port calls at the island country.
Russia Signs Arms Deal With UAE to Supply AU-220M Automatic Turret Module Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- The new turret will be integrated with a new Emirati armored fighting vehicle, as Russia continues finding new partners for defense cooperation./li>
Kerry accuses Russia of lying about involvement in Ukraine Iran Press TV 25 Feb 2015 -- US Secretary of State John Kerry has leveled accusations against Russian authorities, saying they have been "lying" to his face about Moscow's involvement in Ukraine.
Putin: Gas Cuts To Europe Possible, Kyiv's Gas Cuts To East 'Genocide' RFE/RL 25 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Ukraine faces a natural-gas cutoff that could leave Europe with shortages while saying Kyiv's suspension of gas supplies to separatist parts of eastern Ukraine 'smells of genocide.'
Russia Ready to Defend Its Interests in Arctic With Military Means Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- Russia does not rule out the possibility of protecting its national interests in the Arctic with military means as the region becomes the focus of attention from various countries, including those that do not have direct access to the Arctic Circle, Russia's defense minister said Wednesday.
India Considering Russian Shipyard for Construction of Advanced Warship Sputnik 25 Feb 2015 -- India is considering whether to place an order for four more warships with Russia's Yantar shipyard that has already built six frigates for the Indian Navy, the shipyard's acting chief executive told RIA Novosti on Wednesday.
Putin Says War With Ukraine 'Unlikely' RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says a war with Ukraine is 'unlikely' and he hopes 'it will never happen.'
U.S., Russia Clash Over Ukraine At UN RFE/RL 24 Feb 2015 -- The United States and Russia traded accusations mainly over the conflict in Ukraine at the UN Security Council on February 23.
Bulgaria Key Battleground in US-Russia Energy War VOA 23 Feb 2015 -- As the U.S. wages a high-profile campaign against Russia over Ukraine, it is also battling Kremlin-dominance on another front - energy in Eastern Europe.
Russia to Sign Naval Gun Mount Delivery Deal With UAE Soon - Trade Minister Sputnik 23 Feb 2015 -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) may soon sign a preliminary agreement to purchase a Russian-made 57 mm-caliber naval gun mount, Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov said Sunday.
Britain: More Costs for Russia Possible Over Ukraine VOA 23 Feb 2015 -- Calling Russia's actions in Ukraine "illegal," British Prime Minister David Cameron said to lawmakers Monday that more sanctions should be imposed on Russia, if pro-Russian rebels in Ukraine attempt to expand their territorial control.
Russian Ambassador Quells British Media Panic About Russian Bombers Sputnik 23 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Ambassador to the United Kingdom sent a letter to the editor of the Daily Telegraph clarifying the situation with Russian strategic bomber flights to the country's mass media.
Russian Loyalists Hold 'Anti-Maidan' March in Moscow VOA 21 Feb 2015 -- As Ukraine marks the one-year anniversary of the Euromaidan clashes that toppled its Russia-leaning president, thousands of demonstrators in Moscow on Saturday held what they called an "anti-Maidan" march.
Russia Holds Anti-Maidan Rally RFE/RL 21 Feb 2015 -- Thousands of people have rallied in central Moscow to mark the first anniversary of what they view as a 'coup' in neighboring Ukraine.
US Senate Coalition Demands Penalizing Russia for Alleged Minsk Violations Sputnik 21 Feb 2015 -- The US should impose additional sanctions on Russia and increase military aid to Kiev to penalize Moscow for allegedly violating the Minsk agreement, a ten-member bipartisan group of US senators said in a letter to US Secretary of State John Kerry.
US, Britain Weigh Additional Sanctions Against Russia VOA 21 Feb 2015 -- The United States and Britain on Saturday discussed imposing more sanctions on Russia, as Ukraine's week-old cease-fire continued to teeter on the brink of collapse.
Russia Ready to Supply MiG-35 Jets to Egypt - Manufacturer Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Russian Aircraft Corporation MiG is ready to supply MiG-35fighter jets to Egypt should the country request them, MiG head Sergei Korotkov said at the Aero India-2015 exposition Friday.
Russia Will Find Adequate Response to Any Pressure From Outside - Putin Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Vladimir Putin said the Russian military is ready to act decisively against any external threats. The president also added that in recent years, a lot of work to improve the effectiveness of Russia's military administration has been carried out.
Top Secret Fuel Formula to Accelerate Russia's Hypersonic Missiles Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Russia has invented special fuel formula enabling Russia's hypersonic aerial vehicles to fly faster than five times the speed of sound.
Russia Developing New Nuclear Powered Destroyer Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- Russia is developing a new generation destroyer with a nuclear propulsion system, Russian Navy Commander Viktor Chirkov told journalists Friday.
Construction of Two New Naval Corvettes Begins in Russia Sputnik 20 Feb 2015 -- The building of two cutting-edge Russian naval corvettes Retiviy and Strogiy started at the Severnaya Verf shipyard in Saint-Petersburg.
U.K. Official: Putin A 'Danger' To Baltics As Russian Planes Buzz Britain RFE/RL 19 Feb 2015 -- British Defense Secretary Michael Fallon says Russia poses a 'real and present danger' to Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia and NATO is preparing for possible attacks against the Baltic states.
Nonexistent Eastern Threat' Pretext for NATO Buildup in Europe - Moscow Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- A rise in NATO's military presence in Eastern Europe to contain the alleged threat of Russian aggression could undermine the region's security, Russia's Foreign Ministry's spokesman Alexander Lukashevich told journalists Thursday.
Russia's Strategic Missile Forces Check Combat Readiness During Drills Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) have completed command and staff exercises testing troops' combat readiness for war, SMF spokesperson Col. Igor Yegorov said Thursday.
Russia Begins Deployment of New Nebo-M Anti-Missile Radar Facilities Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Russian Strategic Missile Defense troops have begun deploying the new Nebo-M (Heaven-M) anti-missile radar facility systems, a spokesman from the Russian Defense Ministry's press service said Thursday.
Russia Ends Su-34 Strike-Fighter Exercises in Country's South Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- The Russian military has ended exercises with a dozen of Su-34 (Fullback) strike fighter jets in the Rostov and Volgograd Regions, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
Russian Navy Kicks Off Anti-Cruise Missile Attack Drills in Black Sea Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- Warships from Russia's Black Sea Fleet have begun exercises with its anti-missile defense systems and naval aviation to deflect cruise missile attacks, a source in the Crimean Naval Base told RIA Novosti on Thursday.
Russian Air Force Awaits Cutting-Edge Transport Planes Sputnik 19 Feb 2015 -- The Russian military plans to buy an additional number of Ilyushin IL-76 MD-90A transport planes as part of its modernization program.
Russia, South Ossetia Sign Border Agreement RFE/RL 18 Feb 2015 -- Russia and Georgia's breakaway region of South Ossetia have signed a 'border agreement' opposed by Tbilisi.
Europe can't do without Russia: Hungary Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban says the economy of Europe depends on Russia, stressing that it is only an "illusion" to think Europe can do without Russian energy supplies.
Russia launches aerial war games in northwest Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- Russia has launched an aerial drill in the country's northwest, with more than 50 fighter jets participating in the exercises, a military official says.
Canada imposes more bans on Russia over Ukrainian crisis Iran Press TV 18 Feb 2015 -- Canada has imposed new sanctions on over 50 Russian and pro-Russia individuals and entities, accusing Russia of undermining "the sovereignty of Ukraine."
Four Advanced Transport Helicopter Models Developed in Russia Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Helicopters company has developed four advanced transport helicopters, with certification tests to be completed this year, the company's director, Alexander Mikheev, told RIA Novosti Wednesday.
Russia Sues Germany Over Mulino Training Ground Contract Disruption Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- Russia has sued Germany over the disruption of the $138-million contract to build an inter-branch military training center in Central Russia's Mulino, Russia's first deputy defense minister said Wednesday.
Russia's Eastern Command to Take Part in 5 International Exercises in 2015 Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- Units from Russia's Eastern Command will participate in five international exercises this year, including joint-exercises with China and India, Col. Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the commander of the troops, said on Wednesday.
Fighter Jet Training Begins in NW Russia - Military Official Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- The active phase of fighter jet training has begun in northwestern Russia, the Western Military District's press service announced Wednesday.
Canada's Prime Minister Announces New Anti-Russia Sanctions Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- The Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, has issued a statement announcing fresh economic sanctions and travel bans against 37 Russian and Ukrainian individuals, and economic sanctions against 17 Russian and Ukrainian entities over their alleged role in the escalation of the situation in Ukraine.
Russia, India Consider Joint Production of Ka-226T Helicopters Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- Moscow and New Delhi are currently discussing the possibility of creating a joint venture to manufacture the Ka-226T light multirole helicopter in India, Russian Helicopters CEO Alexander Mikheev told RIA Novosti.
New Delhi Gets Full Access to Russian New Fighter Jet Technology Sputnik 18 Feb 2015 -- Indian defense companies involved in a joint project with Russia to build a Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) are satisfied with their access to Russian technologies, the Indian ambassador in Moscow said, denying media reports that Moscow withheld information from New Delhi.
Putin Demands Surrender of Encircled Ukrainian Troops VOA 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is calling on pro-Russian rebels to allow besieged Ukrainian troops safe passage out of the encircled town of Debaltseve in eastern Ukraine.
Putin Urges Kyiv To Surrender Town Amid U.S. Warnings RFE/RL 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has urged Kyiv to allow Ukrainian soldiers who are encircled in an eastern Ukrainian town to lay down their weapons as Washington warned Moscow that 'the costs to Russia will rise' if it kept supporting the rebels.
Putin Visits Budapest Amid Protests, Says Gazprom Ready To Ship Gas To Hungary RFE/RL 17 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said during a visit to Budapest on February 17 that the state firm Gazprom is ready to ship natural gas to Hungary after an existing agreement expires in 2015.
Russian Shipyard Makes History: 4 Subs Under Construction Simultaneously Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Sevmash shipyard is simultaneously building four nuclear-powered submarines for the first time in the country's modern history.
Ka-27 Helicopters Search for Enemy Submarine in Barents Sea Exercise Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Ka-27 crews of the Northern Fleet practiced anti-submarine warfare in the Barents Sea, as the navy takes advantage of the polar night to practice nighttime maneuvers.
Su-34s, MiGs Begin Combat Exercises Over European Russia, Lake Ladoga Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Over 50 fighter jet pilots are taking part in the exercises, which will culminate with the Ladoga-2015 exercise over Lake Ladoga, east of the outskirts of St. Petersburg.
Russian Arms Exporter Finalizing Delivery of 71 Mi-17 Helicopters to India Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Russia and India will finalize the delivery of 71 Mi-17V-5 (Hip) transport helicopters by the end of 2015 and are currently discussing further deliveries, the deputy head of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport said Tuesday.
Russia Ready to Supply Su-30 Fighters to India if French Rafales Deal Folds Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Russia is ready to supply India with an additional delivery of Su-30MKI (Flanker-H) long-range fighter jets to replace the French Rafales that New Delhi has rejected because of their price tag, the deputy head of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport said Tuesday.
Russia, India to Start Manufacture of First Test Models of T-50 Fighter Jet Sputnik 17 Feb 2015 -- Russia and India are moving into the phase of constructing the first test models of the Russian-Indian fifth-generation T-50 fighter jet with stealth capabilities, the deputy head of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport said Tuesday.
Russia to boost military ties with Latin America Iran Press TV 16 Feb 2015 -- The Russian deputy defense minister says Moscow is ready to boost military cooperation with Latin American countries.
Russian Navy Holds Live Fire Exercise in Mediterranean Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Russian Navy ships conducted live artillery fire exercises against sea and air targets in the Mediterranean Sea on Monday, the Black Sea Fleet's press service announced.
Russia Wraps Up War Games Featuring Strategic Rocket Forces Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- The largest military exercises ever to involve the Strategic Missile Forces have concluded in Russia.
Russia's Chechnya to Host Unique Training Complex for Special Forces Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Russia's republic of Chechnya is set to host a world-class center for training Russian Special Forces; the complex will also be available to the Special Forces of other countries.
Russia to Conduct Observation Flights Over US, Italy – Defense Ministry Sputnik 16 Feb 2015 -- Russian aviation inspectors will conduct two observation flights over the territory of the United States and one over the territory of Italy in February under the Treaty on Open Skies, the head of the Russian National Centre for Reducing Nuclear Threat Sergei Ryzhkov has said.
Russia May Finalize its Flagship Aircraft Carrier by 2025 Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- The construction of a flagship air carrier for the Russian Navy may be finalized before 2025, a Russian Navy spokesman said.
Russia Has No Plans to Create Military Bases in Latin America Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- Deputy Minister of Defense Anatoly Antonov told Russian media on Sunday that despite increased military and military-technical cooperation with countries in Latin America, Russia has no plans for military bases in the region./li>
Russia Plans $123.3 Million in Upgrades for Arctic Military Base Sputnik 15 Feb 2015 -- Russia will modernize the base as part of its plans to improve the defense of its northern Arctic territories, where temperatures are rising and NATO is showing newfound interest.
Russia's Naval Air Forces to Receive Brand New Landing System Sputnik 14 Feb 2015 -- The system is expected to deliver a fully automatic landing approach which will resolve various problems with landing in bad weather conditions.
New Anti-Russia Sanctions to Enter Into Force Monday - European Commission Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- Maja Kocijancic, European Commission's spokesperson for foreign affairs, confirmed Friday that the EU will add 19 individuals, including five Russians, and nine entities to the list of sanctions over Ukraine on February 16.
Three Combat Ships Join Russia's Mediterranean Task Force Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- the escort vessel Ladny and amphibious ships Saratov and Yamal – joined Russian naval forces in the Mediterranean Sea,' Trukhachev said.
Russian Black Sea Fleet's Combat Readiness to Be Checked During Training Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- The military administration office and its naval, aerial and coastal units will be checked for their readiness to accomplish their missions.
Minsk Agreements Should Bring End to Sanctions Against Russia - Minister Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- The agreements reached in Minsk on the crisis situation in Ukraine should help in lifting of economic sanctions imposed on Russia, Russian Economic Development Minister Alexei Ulyukayev said Friday.
Snap Military Drills Kick Off in Caspian Fleet in Russia's Southern Region Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- Unannounced military exercises have begun in Russia's southern region for the Caspian Fleet, the Southern Military Region's press service said Friday.
Moscow's Stance on Mistral Deal With France Unchanged - Kremlin Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- Russia has not changed its stance on the non-fulfillment by France on the delivery of the first Mistral helicopter carrier that was due at the end of last year, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti on Friday.
Conditions Still Not Satisfied for Mistral Deliveries - Hollande Sputnik 13 Feb 2015 -- French President Francois Hollande has announced that conditions for the delivery of Mistral helicopter carriers to Russia are still not right.
Russia Eyes Ailing N. Korean Infrastructure VOA 13 Feb 2015 -- North Korea's ailing infrastructure is regarded as the most favorable area for Russian investment, according to the head of a business council tasked with promoting business between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Mistral Deal With Russia Still on Hold - French Foreign Minister Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- The delivery of two Mistral-class helicopter carriers to Russia under the 2011 deal is still suspended despite the positive outcome of the Minsk talks on the Ukrainian crisis resolution, French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said Thursday.
Russian Strategic Missile Forces Begin Wide-Range Drills in 12 Regions Sputnik 12 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces have begun wide-range exercises in 12 regions in the country, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
Argentina to Consider Buying More Russian Mi-171E Helicopters – Ambassador Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- Argentina will consider buying more Russian Mi-171E helicopters in the future, because the country is very happy with the two helicopters that it received in 2011, Russian Ambassador to Argentina Viktor Coronelli told RIA Novosti.
Abbott to Prevent Russia, North Korea From Bidding on Submarine Tender Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- Australia will not hold an open tender on an important submarine project to prevent Russia and North Korea's participation, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Wednesday.
Russia to Take Part in Venezuelan Military Exercises - Defense Minister Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu confirmed on Wednesday that Russia will participate in joint air defense and artillery drills with Venezuela.
Russia Grounds All Su-24 Bombers After Crash Near Volgograd Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- All Russian Su-24 (Fencer) tactical bombers have been grounded throughout the country until the reason for the crash of one of the jets earlier on Wednesday near the southern city of Volgograd is explained, the Russian Defense Ministry's press service said.
Nazarbaev Calls U.S., EU Sanctions On Russia 'Barbaric' RFE/RL 11 Feb 2015 -- Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbaev says U.S. and EU sanctions against Russia are 'barbaric' and has called for the 'de-dollarization' of the Central Asian country's economy.
Russian Citizen Buryakov Charged With Spying in NYC - Attorney Sputnik 11 Feb 2015 -- Russian national Evgeny Buryakov was charged with espionage for Russia's intelligence service during a preliminary hearing in Manhattan court on Wednesday, a statement from the US Attorney's Office in New York said.
Obama Calls Putin Regarding Ukraine Situation VOA 10 Feb 2015 -- The White House says President Barack Obama spoke by phone Tuesday with Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging the Russian leader to back a peace deal for Ukraine set for review Wednesday at a four-nation crisis summit in Belarus.
Readout of the President's Call with President Putin of Russia The White House 10 Feb 2015
Egypt, Russia Sign Military, Economic and Nuclear Accords VOA 10 Feb 2015 -- Russia and Egypt signed several agreements to reinforce military and economic ties, along with a deal to help Cairo develop nuclear power capabilities. The agreements capped a two-day visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Russia Signs Satellite Navigation Cooperation Agreement With China Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- As part of the Russian agency's official visit to China, head of Roscosmos Igor Komarov met with the leader of China's National Space Administration, Xu Dazhe.
Russian Black Sea Fleet Starts Massive Drills in Crimea Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- Russia's Black Sea Fleet has begun large-scale military exercises in a mountainous area of the Crimean Peninsula.e
Washington Seeking Change of Power in Russia - Russian Official Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- The United States is actively using the Ukrainian conflict to force a change of power in Moscow and split Russian society, Russia's Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said.
Russian Military to Fire Iskander Missiles During Pacific Ocean Drills Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Pacific Ocean Fleet along with military forces from the country's northeast has kicked off impromptu training exercises with some of its units on the Kamchatka Peninsula with approximately 2,500 servicemen, the Eastern Military Region's press service said Tuesday.
Ukraine Jails 'Russian Spy' for Nine Years on Treason Charge Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- Northern Ukraine's Chernigiv Court has sentenced a former military serviceman to a nine-year jail term on charges of espionage in favor of Russia, the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) said Tuesday in a statement.
New York Court Indicts Alleged Russian Agent Sputnik 10 Feb 2015 -- Russian national Evgeny Buryakov was indicted without a hearing at the US District Court of Southern District of New York on Monday, a spokesperson from the court told Sputnik following the decision.
Obama, Merkel Discuss Ukraine Situation, ISIL AFPS 09 Feb 2015 -- The United States will continue to stand with nations around the world in sanctions against Russia for its actions in Ukraine, President Barack Obama said during a joint news conference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel today.
Remarks by President Obama and Chancellor Merkel in Joint Press Conference The White House 09 Feb 2015
Germany Warns 'European Order' at Risk Ahead of Ukraine Peace Talks VOA 09 Feb 2015 -- Leaders from France, Germany, Ukraine and Russia are due to meet in Minsk on Wednesday in the latest attempt to reach a peace deal in the Ukrainian conflict.
Russian Airbases, Navy Ports Not Being Created in Cyprus Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- The agreement on Russian-Cypriot military cooperation that is planned to be signed by Greek President Nicos Anastasiades later in February in Moscow does not foresee creating a Russian military base in Cyprus, RIA Novosti reported Monday, citing a diplomatic source in Athens.
Putin Visiting Egypt VOA 09 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is starting a two-day state visit to Egypt at a time of major challenges and uncertainties for both Moscow and Cairo.
Obama Says Russia Has Clearly Violated Agreement On Ukraine RFE/RL 09 Feb 2015 -- U.S. President Barack Obama said after a February 9 meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Washington that it is clear Russia has violated a previous agreement on Ukraine.
Russia concerned by Ukraine militarization Iran Press TV 09 Feb 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has voiced concern about the rapid militarization of Ukraine, with increased defense spending, while the country is struggling with economic woes.
Russian Mechanized Infantry Receives New Electronic Warfare System Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- The newest Borisoglebsk-2V electronic warfare system has been received by the mechanized infantry formation stationed in the Republic of Buryatia, the head of the Eastern Military District's press service, Colonel Aleksandr Gordeyev announced on Monday.
Mi-8 'Terminator' Crews Begin Extreme Survival Training in Siberia Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- Mi-8 AMTSh 'Terminator' and Mi-26 helicopter crews in stationed Khabarovsk began 'survival training' exercises in extreme winter conditions, the head of the Eastern Military District's press service, Colonel Aleksandr Gordeyev announced on Monday.
Russia Successfully Tests Small-Sized Anti-Submarine System in Baltic Sea Sputnik 09 Feb 2015 -- Russia's stealth corvette Soobrazitelny has successfully tested the country's newest Paket-NK small-sized anti-submarine system with anti-torpedo capabilities during the military exercises in the Baltic Sea.
Russia Sanctions on Hold as EU Waits for Peace Talks VOA 09 Feb 2015 -- European Union foreign ministers agreed Monday to postpone further sanctions against Russia for a week to give time to a peace push to defuse the crisis in Ukraine.
Allies Must Stay Focused on Russia, Biden Says in Munich AFPS 08 Feb 2015 -- Europe and the United States tried to bring Russia into the community of nations in a constructive manner, but Russian President Vladimir Putin has other ideas, Vice President Joe Biden said yesterday in Munich.
Russia slams US plan for arming Ukraine Iran Press TV 08 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has criticized the US' plans to supply "lethal weapons" to the Ukrainian government.
Remarks by the Vice President at the Munich Security Conference The White House 07 Feb 2015
Russia Riled by Japan's Renewed Claims to Disputed Kuril Islands Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday it was upset by Japan's renewed attempts to lay claims to a disputed island chain in East Asia.
Russia's Putin Suggests U.S. Bent On World Domination RFE/RL 07 Feb 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin says Russia is facing Cold War-style containment efforts at the hands of the West and will oppose world domination by a single country.
NATO Buildup Near Russian Borders Undermines Security - Lavrov Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Saturday that NATO military buildup near the Russian borders fuels up confrontation and undermines European security.
Merkel Wants West to Build Security in Europe With Russia, Not Against It Sputnik 07 Feb 2015 -- The West is striving to build security in Europe together with Russia and not against it, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during the Munich Security Conference in Germany on Saturday.
Iran stresses implementing Iran-Russia military agreements ISNA 07 Feb 2015 -- Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehghan stressed implementing military agreement between Iran and Russia.
Obama's New Security Strategy Sharply Shifts Tone On Russia RFE/RL 06 Feb 2015 -- What a difference five years can make. The White House's new national security strategy portrays Russia exclusively as a regional bully and a threat to international stability, a sharp reversal from the collaborative U.S. approach to Moscow spelled out in the previous version of the policy document issued in 2010.
Russia, EU Leaders Agree to Work on Ukraine Cease-fire VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- The leaders of France, Germany, and Russia have failed to reach a breakthrough peace deal on Ukraine during talks in Moscow. But they agreed to work on a shaky September cease-fire.
Would US Military Aid to Ukraine Push Putin to Escalate? VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- As the United States weighs arming Ukraine's military to bolster its fight against Russia-backed separatists, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President François Hollande have begun talks in Moscow to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Merkel, Hollande Call On Putin With Ukraine Peace Plan RFE/RL 06 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande have met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a diplomatic push for peace in eastern Ukraine.
German, French Leaders Take Ukraine Peace Plan to Putin VOA 06 Feb 2015 -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande are meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where they are expected to present him with a new peace proposal aimed at ending an escalation in fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Stoltenberg Says NATO Against Confrontation With Russia Sputnik 06 Feb 2015 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Friday the alliance was not seeking confrontation with Russia and had no goal to isolate Moscow.
Latvian Army Claims NATO Jets Scrambled to Intercept Russian Plane Sputnik 06 Feb 2015 -- The Latvian Army reported Friday that NATO fighter jets were scrambled to intercept a Russian Ilyushin Il-38 maritime patrol aircraft over the Baltic Sea.
Biden warns Europe to stay with US against Russia Iran Press TV 06 Feb 2015 -- US Vice President Joe Biden has once again accused Russia of "escalating the conflict" in Ukraine as Washington considers providing Kiev with lethal weapons.
All The President's Ailments RFE/RL 06 Feb 2015 -- If you believe the Kremlin's PR, President Vladimir Putin is an alligator-wrestling action hero. But if you believe the deluge of rumors about his health in recent years, he's an ailing and psychologically disturbed man.
Russian Navy to Receive Two New Surveying Vessels in 2015 Sputnik 06 Feb 2015 -- Two large surveying boats of the 19920 project will be delivered to the Russian Naval Forces in 2015, spokesperson for the Defense Ministry Igor Dygalo said Friday.
Russia to Give 'Adequate' Response to NATO's Expansion Sputnik 06 Feb 2015 -- NATO's recent decision to set up additional command centers in six different countries will inevitably lead to 'adequate' changes in Russia's military planning, the country's envoy to the alliance, Alexander Grushko, has told Russian journalists.
Expert: Sending Weapons to Ukraine Would Embolden Putin VOA 05 Feb 2015 -- As Western leaders step up their efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis in eastern Ukraine, one analyst says any peace deal must include the proviso that the Ukrainian government has to deal with separatist leaders.
NATO Meets to Discuss Strengthening Defenses Near Russia VOA 05 Feb 2015 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance was set Thursday to strengthen its defenses near Russia's borders in response to Moscow's 'aggressive actions' in Ukraine.
Russia concerned by planned regional military alliance Iran Press TV 05 Feb 2015 -- Russia has voiced concern over the planned formation of a multinational military alliance among Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania amid rising tensions between Moscow and the West over the crisis in Ukraine's east.
NATO set to expand military presence near Russia border Iran Press TV 05 Feb 2015 -- NATO defense ministers have met at the bloc's headquarters in Brussels in a bid to agree on a plan to boost its military presence near Russia's western borders amid growing tensions in eastern Ukraine.
New Russian Tor Missile System Preparing to Blast Off Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- Air defense units of Russia's Eastern Military District stationed in Khabarovsky Territory started getting acquainted with the all-new Tor-M2U missile system which came into service late 2014, the district reported in a statement.
Tornado Rocket System to Replace Grad in Russia's Eastern Military District Sputnik 04 Feb 2015 -- Around 20 new Tornado-G multiple rocket launcher systems were delivered to the motor rifle unit of Russia's Eastern Military District to replace the Grad launchers, the district reports in a statement.
Foreign intervention destabilizes states: Lavrov Iran Press TV 03 Feb 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says foreign intervention in the internal affairs of independent countries not only destabilizes entire countries but also incites conflicts in international relations.
U.S. Lawmakers Seek Clarity On White House Russia Policy Review RFE/RL 03 Feb 2015 -- U.S. lawmakers are pushing for details on an ongoing White House review of its policy toward Russia amid escalating violence between Ukrainian forces and pro-Moscow rebels that Western leaders accuse the Kremlin of backing.
New Russian Military Helicopter to Have Top Speed of 400 Kmph Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- Russia is going to build a new military helicopter that will be able to fly at a 'revolutionary' speed of 400 kilometers per hour, slightly below the official world record, a Russian source in the military tech industry told RIA Novosti on Tuesday.
Russian Military Receives Cutting-Edge Electronic Warfare Systems Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- Russian hi-tech company Concern Radio-Electronic Technologies (KRET) completed the 2014 Defense Procurement in advance and delivered up-to-date electronic warfare devices worth 17.1 billion rubles ($252 million) to the Defense Ministry, Igor Nasenkov, KRET deputy director, told journalists.
Russian Air Force, Naval Aviation to Receive Over 200 New Aircrafts in 2015 Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Air Force and Naval Aviation, the air branch of the Russian Navy, will receive 126 new military airplanes and 88 helicopters, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday.
Russian Army to Receive Sukhoi Su-35S Fighter Jet in 2015 Sputnik 03 Feb 2015 -- The Sukhoi Su-35S, Russia's new highly-maneuverable multirole fighter jet, is expected to enter service in 2015, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday.
Prospects for NATO-Russia relations - Keynote address by NATO Deputy Secretary General Ambassador Alexander Vershbow at the 2015 Leangkollen Conference, Oslo NATO 02 Feb 2015 -- "To the East, Russia has torn up the international rule book. It has returned to a strategy of power politics. It threatens not just Ukraine, but European and global security more generally. And it is pursuing this strategy even as the costs to its own prosperity and reputation grow."
Deputy Secretary General: Russia's aggression is a game-changer in European security NATO 02 Feb 2015 -- The NATO Deputy Secretary General, Alexander Vershbow, giving a speech to the Nobel Institute in Oslo, on 2 February 2015, said "Russia's aggression against Ukraine is not an isolated incident, but a game-changer in European security. It reflects an evolving pattern of behavior that has been emerging for several years, despite our efforts to reach out to Russia and build a cooperative European security system with Russia."
Russia Begins WMD Defense Drills in Armenia and Near Ukraine Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- Large-scale exercises of Russian radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops have started on seven firing ranges in Russia's Southern Military Region, as well as the Crimean Peninsula and Armenia, Russia's news agency RIA-Novosti reports.
Russian Tu-95MC Bombers Flying Over Atlantic Are Unarmed Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- Russian military aircraft conducting flights over neutral waters are unarmed, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry told RIA Novosti on Monday.
Massive Air Defense Exercises Begin in Siberia, Baltic Sea Sputnik 02 Feb 2015 -- The Russian Baltic Fleet's air defense force repelled an airstrike using S-300 air defense systems, the Western Military District's press service announced.
'Russian bomber carried nuclear missile over the Channel' Iran Press TV 01 Feb 2015 -- A Russian bomber reported intercepted flying over the English Channel last week is purported to have carried a nuclear weapon.
Russia buys record amount of gold Iran Press TV 01 Feb 2015 -- Central Bank of Russia spent over USD6 billions on gold purchases last year in an attempt to shift away from a dependency on the dollar.
From West To Far East, Russians Spending More To Buy Less Food RFE/RL 01 Feb 2015 -- It's been a tumultuous season for Russians, who first saw their food options dwindle back in August 2014, when President Vladimir Putin imposed a ban on Western food imports in response to EU and U.S. sanctions over Moscow's interference in Ukraine.
Kuban Military Aviation Base to Get 25 New Yak-130 Training Planes in 2015 Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- The Zhukovsky and Gagarin Air Force Academy in Armavir, Krasnodar is set to receive five new Yakovlev Yak-130 light attack training aircraft this week, with twenty more to be delivered before the year is out, Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports.
Russian Arms Maker Cuts the Red Tape to Deliver Cheaper, Better Weapons Sputnik 01 Feb 2015 -- The Russian military industry is learning to make cheaper, higher-quality weapons systems, Russian business magazine Expert.ru has reported, citing the development of an updated 8-wheeled carrier vehicle for S-300 and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems which is 25 percent cheaper than earlier versions of the truck.

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

February 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News