March 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News

Russia Launches Three Telecoms, One Military Satellites Into Orbit Sputnik 31 Mar 2015 -- A Rokot carrier rocket lifted off on Tuesday from the Plesetsk space center in northwestern Russia to deliver a trio of Gonets-M communications satellites and an unspecified military satellite into orbit, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Ex-KGB Agent Kalugin: Putin Was 'Only A Major' RFE/RL 31 Mar 2015 -- Vladimir Putin is merely posing as a lieutenant colonel. The Russian president also oversaw war crimes in Chechnya and helped frame a prosecutor-general to derail a probe into massive Kremlin corruption. These are some of the claims made by Oleg Kalugin, a former high-ranking KGB officer and fierce critic of Putin in an interview
Russia's Borey-Class Subs Construction Not Subject to Budget Sequestration Sputnik 31 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Ministry of Defense previously said that a series of construction and weapon development programs could be subject to budget sequestration.
Borey-Class Nuclear Submarines to Serve Russian Fleet Until 2050 Sputnik 31 Mar 2015 -- Eight Borey-class nuclear submarines will join the Russian Navy by 2020 and will be the backbone of Russia's marine nuclear forces.
Final test launch of Russia's new RS-26 Rubezh ballistic missile successful - designer TASS 31 Mar 2015 -- The final test launch of Russia's solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile RS-26 in mid-March was successful, a senior official at the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology told TASS on Tuesday.
Russian strategic missile force drills involve over 3500 troops TASS 31 Mar 2015 -- More than 3,500 troops and 300 equipment units are involved in maneuvers of the Orenburg missile formation, spokesman for the Russian Strategic Missile Forces (RVSN) Colonel Igor Yegorov told TASS on Tuesday.
Russian airborne force unit to get new combat gear for Arctic mission TASS 31 Mar 2015 -- Paratroopers of the Airborne Forces formation in Ivanovo (Central Russia) will get new combat garments for the Far North and transpolar missions, Russian Defense Ministry spokesman for the VDV Lieutenant Colonel Yevgeny Meshkov said on Tuesday.
Saudi Arabia Criticizes Putin Over Letter To Arab Summit RFE/RL 30 Mar 2015 -- Saudi Arabia has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of hypocrisy over Russia's role in the Syrian civil war.
Russia Begins Large-Scale Air Defense Drills in Siberia Sputnik 30 Mar 2015 -- Large-scale air defense drills have started in Russia's Eastern Military District, according to the Russian Defense Minister's press service.
Russia Deploys 96 Military Units in Crimea - Defense Minister Sputnik 30 Mar 2015 -- The Russian military has deployed a self-sufficient contingent on the Crimean Peninsula, consisting of 96 units, and plans to boost its combat capability there, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Monday.
Almost 100 military units and organizations created in Crimea - defense minister TASS 30 Mar 2015 -- The force grouping in Crimea has been set up not only to defend Russia's interests on the peninsula and in the Black Sea, it is also capable of performing tasks in the off-shore maritime zone, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said on Monday.
Russia's Orenburg Strategic Missile Forces unit undergoes comprehensive check TASS 30 Mar 2015 -- The Orenburg branch of the Russian Strategic Missile Forces has begun a comprehensive check-up, the Defense Ministry's spokesman for Strategic Missile Forces, Igor Yegorov, has told TASS.
Russian forces to practise use of S-300, S-400 against air, missile strikes TASS 30 Mar 2015 -- Russian army units from seven regions in Russia's east will practice the use of S-300 and S-400 air defense systems for repelling potential enemy's massive missile and air strikes, the chief of the Eastern Military District's press-service, Colonel Alexander Gordeyev, has said.
US, Ukrainian Inspectors to Fly Over Russia Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 30 Mar 2015 -- American and Ukrainian specialists will fly over the territory of Russia and Belarus under the Treaty on Open Skies on March 30 - April 4, Sergei Ryzhkov, head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center has announced.
Warplanes Account for Almost Half of Russian Arms Revenues - Exporter Sputnik 27 Mar 2015 -- The delivery of aviation dominated the overall Russian exports of weapons in 2014, the director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation said Friday.
India Tops List of Russian Arms Buyers in 2014 Sputnik 27 Mar 2015 -- India was the largest buyer of Russian arms and military equipment in 2014, accounting for 28 percent of shipments, the director of the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) said Friday.
NATO Chief Dismisses Latest Russian Allegations as More Propaganda VOA 26 Mar 2015 -- The head of NATO is dismissing the latest allegations by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who accused the West of trying to undermine his rule and destabilize his country.
Russia capable of responding to US missile shield deployment plans - diplomat TASS 26 Mar 2015 -- Moscow warns the countries intending to permit deployment of the US missile shield elements on their territories that Russia has all the necessary means to counter the threat, Alexander Lukashevich, a spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, said on Thursday.
Putin Accuses West Of Anti-Russian Plots RFE/RL 26 Mar 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin has accused Western nations of plotting to influence or disrupt Russian elections over the next few years, including a 2018 vote in which he could seek a fourth term.
Russia's New Military Transport Plane Set to Make Its Maiden Flight in 2017 Sputnik 26 Mar 2015 -- The Ilyushin Il-112, Russia's brand new light military transport plane, is slated to make its maiden flight in 2017, said Yury Borisov, a Russian Deputy Minister of Defense.
Russia Successfully Test-Fires RS-26 Ballistic Missile Sputnik 26 Mar 2015 -- Russia carried out a successful test-firing of an RS-26 Rubezh ballistic missile from its southern Kapustin Yar launch center, a military representative said.
Situation around Russia will improve if Moscow stays strong - Putin TASS 26 Mar 2015 -- The situation around Russia will improve if Moscow does not bend to pressure but becomes stronger, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday at the meeting of the Federal Security Service (FSB) board.
Snap check of Russia's Northern Fleet confirms its combat readiness - defense minister TASS 26 Mar 2015 -- The snap check of Russia's Northern Fleet has made it possible to assess the real level of the troops' combat readiness and confirmed their capability to ensure Russian security in the Arctic, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said on Thursday.
Moscow suspects US of planning to deploy nuclear-capable frontline aviation near Russia TASS 26 Mar 2015 -- The US and NATO may be planning to deploy frontline aviation capable of carrying nuclear weapons on Estonia's border with Russia, Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
Russia prepares for Center-2015 large-scale military drills in September TASS 26 Mar 2015 -- Tens of thousands military servicemen from all branches of the Russian Armed Forces will take part in the large-scale combat exercise Center-2015 scheduled to be held in September, a senior military official said on Thursday.
Putin: Western Intel Services Aiming to Destabilize Russia VOA 26 Mar 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin said Western intelligence services have set it as their goal to destabilize Russia especially during upcoming elections, according to the Kremlin's website.
Russian Military to Get 100 Brand New Su-34 Frontline Bombers Sputnik 25 Mar 2015 -- Over 100 Su-34 strike fighters will be produced to replace Su-24 jets, said Vladimir Mikhaylov, former commander-in-chief of the Russian Air Force.
Live Fire Drills With S-300 Missile Systems, Fighters to Start in Siberia Sputnik 25 Mar 2015 -- Live fire military exercises with S-300 missile systems, jet fighters and support aircraft are planned to take place in April in Russia's Buryatia in southern Siberia, the Ministry of Defense's Eastern Military District's press service said Wednesday.
Russian Marines Kick Off Live Fire Drills in Crimea Sputnik 25 Mar 2015 -- Up to 500 Russian marines from the Black Sea Fleet are holding live fire exercises at a military paratrooper field in Crimea, the Defense Ministry's Southern Military District's press service said Wednesday.
Russia's military drills not connected to NATO's increased activity - Putin's spokesman TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- The issue of the Ukrainian conflict was not discussed at Tuesday's meeting of Russian President Vladimir Putin with Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu and General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov, presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
US deployment of nukes in Europe violates NPT: Russia Press TV 24 Mar 2015 -- Russia has called on the United States, as a NATO member, to withdraw its nuclear weapons from Europe, saying their deployment in the continent violates the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Washington Distorts Facts on US Nuclear Weapons Control in Europe - Moscow Sputnik 24 Mar 2015 -- The US State Department distorts the facts by saying that US nuclear arms in Europe remain under Washington's control and are never transferred to other countries, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said in a statement Tuesday.
Russian Parliamentarians Warns U.S. Not To Arm Ukraine RFE/RL 24 Mar 2015 -- Pro-Kremlin lawmakers say the Russian parliament should reinstate President Vladimir Putin's formal authority to send troops into Ukraine if the United States provides Kyiv with lethal weapons.
US Missile Defense Systems in S Korea Could Spark Asian Arms Race - Moscow Sputnik 24 Mar 2015 -- Moscow believes that the possible deployment of US missile defense systems in South Korea could spark an arms race and hamper negotiations on North Korea's nuclear ambitions, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement Tuesday.
Russia warns US over deploying missile system in S Korea Press TV 24 Mar 2015 -- Moscow has warned Washington against plans to deploy a ballistic missile system in South Korea, saying it may further complicate the situation of the volatile Korean Peninsula.
Nothing Super Hard About It': Mistral-Like Ships Could Be Built in Russia Sputnik 24 Mar 2015 -- Russia's United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) is ready to build assault ships similar to the Mistral-class helicopter carriers should the country's Ministry of Defense make such a decision, said USC president Alexei Rakhmanov.
Putin hopes for more snap checks in Russian army in 2015 TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday he hoped more surprise inspections would be conducted in the Russian Armed Forces in 2015.
Motorized infantry military drills kick off in Russia's Southern Military District TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- The motorized infantry brigade of the Southern Military District stationed in Chechnya has launched field exercises at the Sernovodsky range in Russia's Stavropol region, the district's press service told TASS on Tuesday.
Russia's Caspian Flotilla drills sea battle tactics TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Caspian Flotilla launched naval drills on Tuesday, two days after large-scale command and staff exercises and a snap check of troops' combat readiness came to an end in the country.
Russia's Irkutsk plant to deliver more than 40 Su-30SM, Yak-130 jets in 2015 TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- The Irkutsk aircraft-building plant will deliver 27 Sukhoi-30SM fighter jets and twelve combat training planes Yakovlev-130 for Russian military this year, Deputy Defense Minister Yury Borisov said on Tuesday.
US says ready to continue dialogue with Russia on INF treaty TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- Under-Secretary for Arms Control and International Security at the US Department of State Rose Gottemoeller has said Washington is ready to continue the dialogue with Moscow on the observance of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF).
India wants to lease another Russian nuclear submarine - source TASS 24 Mar 2015 -- India has asked Russia to transfer another nuclear submarine for lease, a high-placed source in the system of Russia's military and technical cooperation with foreign countries said on Tuesday.
Russia to Begin Serial Production of 5th Generation T-50 Fighters in 2016 Sputnik 23 Mar 2015 -- Russia plans to start production of fifth-generation T-50 fighter jets in 2016, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said Monday.
Russia ready to launch fifth generation fighter serial production - deputy minister TASS 23 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry may adjust the order for the T-50 fifth-generation fighters (PAK FA) in the new economic situation with taking into account the Sukhoi Su-35 high flight characteristics, Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov said on Monday.
Construction of Ka-52K shipborne helicopters not connected with Mistral delivery TASS 23 Mar 2015 -- Construction of Ka-52K shipborne helicopters in Russia is not connected with the situation around France's delivery of Mistral helicopter carriers, Deputy Defense Minister Yury Borisov said on Monday.
Russian Jet Flights Comply With International Law - Estonian Air Force Sputnik 23 Mar 2015 -- Unlike Baltic neighbors Latvia and Lithuania, Estonia does not notify citizens of Russian warplanes flying close to its borders since it's not a breach of international norms, the Estonian Air Force press service said Monday.
Finnish Inspectors to Fly Over Russia Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 23 Mar 2015 -- Inspectors from Finland will conduct an observation flight on March 23-27 over the Russian territory within the framework of the Treaty on Open Skies, the head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center said.
Russian Inspectors to Fly Over Turkey Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 23 Mar 2015 -- Russian inspectors will carry out an observation flight over the territory of Turkey on March 23-27 under the Treaty on Open Skies, head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center Sergei Ryzhkov said.
'Brussels Was ... Asleep': Bildt Assesses EU's Mistakes Regarding Russia RFE/RL 22 Mar 2015 -- In an interview with RFE/RL in Brussels, former Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt talks frankly about the mistakes made by the European Union with regard to Russia, what he thinks the Russian president's next moves are likely to be, and why the bloc needs to engage more deeply with Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia.
Russia, North Korea Boost Economic Ties VOA 22 Mar 2015 -- A Russian official said Moscow and Pyongyang have agreed to discuss the creation of advanced development zones in Russia's Far East and North Korea.
Russian Military Urges to Rebuild Trust With Neighbors Amid Ukraine Crisis Sputnik 21 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry urges neighboring nations to return to the pre-crisis level of transparency, in an attempt to ease mistrust that has caused a rift with Europe after the start of the Ukraine conflict, a senior Russian General Staff official said Saturday.
S-400 Air Defense Regiment Takes Up Duty in Russia's Northwest Sputnik 21 Mar 2015 -- The advanced S-400 Triumph air defense missile system division of the Russian Northern Fleet took up combat duty in country's northwest Murmansk region, the Russian Defense Ministry's press service said on Saturday.
Russia Issues Contradicting Statements on NATO VOA 21 Mar 2015 -- A Russian senior official said that Moscow is not seeking confrontation with NATO.
Putin Proposes Talks On Currency Union RFE/RL 20 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says it is time to start talks on the formation of a currency union between Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.
Russian Military Holding 'Anti-Diversion Operation' Drills on Kuril Islands Sputnik 20 Mar 2015 -- Approximately 500 military personnel are holding "anti-diversion operation" exercises on the Kuril Islands in the Pacific Ocean, the Russian Defense Ministry's Eastern Military District said Friday.
Russia: Extended EU Sanctions 'Destructive' VOA 20 Mar 2015 -- Russia has denounced the European Union's move to maintain sanctions against Moscow over its role in the Ukraine conflict, calling Thursday's decision to extend the measures 'destructive.'
EU: Russian Sanctions Stay Until Ukraine Truce Fully in Place VOA 19 Mar 2015 -- European Union leaders meeting in Brussels said Thursday that they would not lift economic sanctions against Russia until a cease-fire Moscow endorsed last month for war-torn eastern Ukraine was fully implemented.
New Russian Plane Will Be Able to Deploy Army Globally in 7 Hours by 2024 Sputnik 19 Mar 2015 -- Russia plans to build a fleet of supersonic military transport aircraft with an unprecedented payload of 220 tons capable of deploying a full-fledged armored army to anywhere in the world in seven hours, Expert Online reported Thursday.
Russia's Advanced Combat Gear to Be Equipped With Drone Connectible Kit Sputnik 19 Mar 2015 -- Russia's state-of-the-art Ratnik (Warrior) infantry combat outfit will be equipped with a special kit to help soldiers connect to drones in order to obtain intelligence data.
Russian Nuclear Submarines Step Up Patrols Over Past Year - Navy Commander Sputnik 19 Mar 2015 -- The number of patrols by Russian submarines, including nuclear ones, has risen by 50 percent over the past 15 months, Russian Navy Commander Adm. Viktor Chirkov said Thursday.
Hidden Potential: Russia Builds Two More Submarines Sputnik 19 Mar 2015 -- The multirole Yasen-class nuclear sub Arkhangelsk and the diesel-electric Lada-class Velikiye Luki have been laid down as part of Submariners' Day celebrations.
Russian Strategic Bombers Conduct Drills in Arctic Circle Sputnik 19 Mar 2015 -- Russian Tu-95MS bombers have started exercises in Russia's Arctic North to test the combat readiness of the country's air defense alert force.
Russia lays down 5th Yasen-class submarine TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- A new-generation nuclear-powered submarine of the Yasen-M project was laid down at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk in northern Russia on Thursday.
Russia starts developing 5th-generation submarines – Navy chief TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Navy gave the defense industry an assignment to develop 5th-generation submarines, Navy Chief Viktor Chirkov said on Thursday.
Russia's military drills in South Ossetia not linked with alliance treaty – Kremlin TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- Maneuvers at the Russian military base in South Ossetia are not linked with the Treaty on Alliance and Integration, signed on Wednesday, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday.
Russia's Su-30 fighters upgraded to carry supersonic cruise missiles TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- Russian Sukhoi Su-30 (Flanker-C) multirole fighter jets are getting an upgrade to carry supersonic cruise missiles. The planes will be modernized both for the Russian Air Force and the Indian military aviation.
Russia to upgrade 10 multi-purpose nuclear submarines by 2020 – Navy chief TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Zvyozdochka shipyard in the country's northwest and the Zvezda Far Eastern plant will be able to modernize about ten project 971 and project 949A nuclear submarines, Russian Navy Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Chirkov said on Thursday.
Russia's strategic command and staff drills gain momentum TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- Russia's command and staff exercises are gaining momentum along with a snap check of troops' combat readiness that kicked off on March 16 and will end on March 21.
Russian army combat readiness check no muscle flexing – Defense Ministry TASS 19 Mar 2015 -- The snap check of combat readiness in Russia's Armed Forces is maximally open and is taking place only in Russian territory, Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov said on Thursday.
The Warlord Checkmates The Tsar RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- Has Ramzan Kadyrov successfully blackmailed the Kremlin? In all the hoopla over Vladimir Putin resurfacing, a pretty important news item managed to slip below the radar.
NATO voices concern over Russian drills amid increased activity near its borders TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- NATO on Wednesday expressed 'serious concern' over snap checks of the combat readiness of the Russian armed forces despite the alliance's growing military activity in Eastern Europe close to Russia's borders.
Russia can sign contract for 4 missile boats for Vietnam in 2015 – manufacturer TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- The contract for construction of four Project 12418 missile boats for Vietnam may be signed in 2015, Oleg Belkov, the director general of the Vympel shipyard, told TASS at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2015).
Statement by the NATO Secretary General on the so-called treaty between the Russian Federation and the South Ossetia region of Georgia NATO 18 Mar 2015
Russia signs alliance treaty with South Ossetia Press TV 18 Mar 2015 -- Russia has signed an alliance and integration deal with Georgia's breakaway region of South Ossetia amid tensions with the West over the crisis in Ukraine.
Putin Signs Pact With Breakaway Georgian Region RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a pact with a Moscow-backed breakaway region of Georgia, despite condemnation by Tbilisi and the West.
Russian, South Ossetian Presidents Sign Treaty on Cooperation, Integration Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- The presidents of Russia and the former Georgian republic of South Ossetia signed on Wednesday a treaty on cooperation and integration between the two states.
Russia conducts naval drill in Baltic Sea Press TV 18 Mar 2015 -- Russia is conducting a defense drill in the Baltic Sea, involving more than 20 vessels from the country’s Baltic Fleet, as part of the Russian Northern Fleet exercises.
Massive Military Drills Near Russian Border Not Provocation - Armed Forces Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- For the past 10 days, Norway has conducted its largest military exercise in decades in the northern Finnmark region. Norway suspended all its military cooperation with Moscow in March 2014.
Moscow Deploys Attack Helicopters to Kuban for Strategic Exercises Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- A combined squadron of 10 Mi-8 (Hip) and Mi-24H (Hind) helicopters has been deployed to the Krymsk Airbase in Russia's southern Krasnodar Region for strategic exercises, the Southern Military District's press service said Wednesday.
Russian Airborne Forces Division Relocated to Arctic Amid Drills Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- A division of Russian Airborne Forces has been relocated from Ivanovo to the Arctic amid ongoing snap combat readiness drills in the country, the Defense Ministry said.
Over 20 Russian Baltic Fleet Ships Involved in Naval Drills Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- More than 20 ships from the Russian Baltic Fleet are conducting defense drills, the press service of Russia's Western Military District announced in a Wednesday statement.
Russian Navy Starts Battle Drills in Barents Sea – Defense Ministry Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- The Russian defense ministry announced that the country's Navy has started battle drills in the Barents Sea as a part of Russian Northern Fleet snap drills that will last until March 21.
Russian Warships Hold Air Defense Drills in Barents Sea – Defense Ministry Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Defense Ministry announced that about 10 Russian warships led by the Admiral Ushakov torpedo boat have conducted air defense exercises in the Barents Sea as part of the snap Northern Fleet combat readiness drills.
Defense minister: Russia promptly builds up troops' capabilities in Arctic, Crimea, Baltic TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Armed Forces have promptly built up the combat capabilities of its groups in the Arctic, Crimea, and the Baltic region, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said on Wednesday.
Russian airborne troops land in two Arctic areas within combat readiness snap check TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- Reconnaissance units of the Ivanovo grouping of Airborne Forces during a snap combat readiness check have made air landing in two Arctic areas, Russian Defense Ministry's press service said on Wednesday.
No response to Russian drills from NATO ships in Black Sea – source TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- NATO ships in the Black Sea have not reacted to Russian maneuvers held as part of the ongoing strategic command and staff exercise, a source at the Black Sea headquarters said on Wednesday.
Chief of Russian General Staff checks readiness of naval strategic nuclear forces TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the Russian General Staff, has inspected the readiness of the country's naval strategic nuclear forces, the Defense Ministry's press service said on Wednesday. He has inspected the Northern Fleet's Gadzhiyevo submarine base and boarded a nuclear submarine of Project 667BDRM.
Large-scale military drills held across Russia TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- Military exercises and combat readiness checks are under way in many Russian regions.
Central Russia's special task forces on combat alert amid drills TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- Special task forces from Russia's Central Military District as well as army forces and aviation, deployed in the Volga area, Urals and in the West Siberia, were put on combat alert as part of the ongoing strategic command and staff exercise, a statement of the military district said on Wednesday.
Russian Black Sea Fleet marines put on full combat alert for drills TASS 18 Mar 2015 -- Units of the marine corps deployed near the town of Temryuk in south Russia's Krasnodar Territory have been put on full combat alert as part of strategic command and post exercises, the Russian Defense Ministry reported Wednesday.
US Intelligence Disproves Media Reports of Nuclear Weapons in Crimea Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- US media reports about alleged movement of Russian tactical nuclear weapons into Crimea are ungrounded, US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Martin Dempsey told Congress.
Russian Northern Fleet's Nuclear Forces Hold Snap Drills Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- As part of the check, Russian First Deputy Defense Minister Army Gen. Valery Gerasimov visited one of the fleet's six Delta IV-class ballistic missile submarines.
EU May Announce Extension Of Russia Sanctions RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- EU leaders are pondering whether to prolong economic sanctions against Russia when they meet in Brussels on March 19.
Putin Addresses Rally Marking 1st Anniversary of Crimea Annexation VOA 18 Mar 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin addressed a rally in Moscow Wednesday to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, saying that any attempt from abroad to make life difficult for his country is a 'futile pursuit.'
Russia Celebrates Crimea Takeover As Criticism Mounts RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said Crimea is not just a territory, but the source of Russia's "historical origins" and its "spirituality and statehood."
Amnesty International Slams Annexed Crimea's Pro-Russia Regime RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- Amnesty International says the de facto authorities in Crimea have failed to investigate a series of abductions and torture of their critics since the violence that led to Russia's mostly unrecognized annexation of the peninsula from Ukraine a year ago.
Russia, Rebels Say Kyiv Violates Ukraine Peace Deal RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says that Ukrainian legislation on the status of rebel-held eastern regions is a "glaring violation" of a European-brokered peace deal signed last month in Minsk.
Replacing Russian Rocket Engine to Take 7 Years - US Air Force Official Sputnik 18 Mar 2015 -- Developing an alternative rocket engine to the existing Russian RD-180 model will take the United States five to seven years because of technological challenges, US Air Force Assistant Secretary of William LaPlante said in a testimony.
Sweden: One-Third Of Russian Diplomats Are Spies RFE/RL 18 Mar 2015 -- BUSweden's intelligence service SAPO has accused Russia of conducting extensive espionage operations on Swedish territory.
Russia, US unlikely to agree on new START treaty soon TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Russia and the United States are unlikely to reach new agreements on reduction of strategic offensive arms soon, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov said on Tuesday.
US Refuses to Recognize Upcoming Russia-South Ossetia Treaty - Psaki Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- Washington will not recognize any new agreements between Russia and South Ossetia that may be signed on Wednesday during South Ossetian President Leonid Tibilov's visit to Moscow, US State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki told journalists on Tuesday.
Nepal Receives Two Mi-17 Helicopters, More Deliveries Discussed Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- Russia delivered two Mil Mi-17 'Hip' helicopters to Nepal, and the two countries are negotiating the supply of more, the head of Russia's state-run arms exporter Rosoboronexport's regional department told RIA Novosti.
Russia Starts Missiles Delivery for Su-30MKM Jets Designed for Malaysia Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- Russia has started delivering missiles for Malaysia's Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighters, manufactured by Russia's Irkut Corporation, the head of Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport's regional department told RIA Novosti in an interview on Tuesday.
Russia to deploy long-range nuclear bombers to Crimea for drills Press TV 17 Mar 2015 -- Officials in Moscow have announced plans to send some of their strategic missile-carriers to Crimea a year after the peninsula separated from Ukraine and rejoined the Russian Federation.
Russia Expands Northern Fleet's Snap Drills to Norwegian Sea Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- The number of naval task groups deployed in Northern Fleet's snap drills has been increased to five, while their operational zone has been expanded to the Norwegian Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said Tuesday.
Russia Notified OSCE of Snap Combat Readiness Drills - Defense Ministry Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- Russia notified the countries of the Organization of Co-operation and Security in Europe (OSCE) of its planned large-scale snap combat readiness exercises in advance, though Moscow was not obliged, the Russian deputy defense minister said Tuesday.
Russian Armed Forces Search for Submarines During Drills in Barents Sea Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- The combat readiness exercises include using radio radar and hydroacoustic equipment and antisubmarine weapons against simulated targets. In addition, Il-38 aircraft are delivering aerial reconnaissance support in the areas of the Barents Sea.
Russian Paratroopers to Move to Polar Region for Northern Fleet Drills Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- The exercises which include tens of thousands of troops will be held on land, in sea and air and will run for five days beginning March 16.
Russian Air Force crews start redeployment to Arctic areas TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- About 30 army aviation crews of the Western Military District have started redeployment on Tuesday within a snap check of combat readiness of the Northern Fleet and separate groupings of the Western Military District and Airborne Force units.
Two Borei class nuclear submarines to replace old Kalmar class subs in Russia's Far East TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Two fourth generation Project 955 Borei class strategic nuclear submarines will replace in Russia's Pacific Fleet the old strategic nuclear submarines of Project 667BDR (Kalmar class), director general of the submarine design bureau Rubin Igor Vilnit said on Tuesday.
Airborne troops in Russia's north-west on combat alert as part of military exercise TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Paratroopers from Russia's north-western Pskov region have been put on high combat alert as part of the command and staff exercise, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.
OSCE member-states informed of Russia's Northern Fleet drills – deputy defense minister TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) member-states were informed in a 'gesture of good will' on the snap combat readiness drills of the Northern Fleet in the Arctic region, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov told reporters on Tuesday.
Ballistic missile systems to be redeployed to Russia's westernmost region – source TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- The Iskander tactical ballistic missile systems will be redeployed during a surprise inspection of troops to the Kaliningrad region in Russia's northwest, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry told TASS on Tuesday.
Russian strategic bombers to be redeployed to Crimea amid snap check – source TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Strategic missile carriers Tupolev TU-22M3 will be transferred to Crimea within the snap check that began on Monday, a source in the Russian Defense Ministry told TASS on Tuesday.
Russia to upgrade ten strategic bombers Tu-95MS in 2015-2016 TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Russia in 2015-2016 will upgrade at least ten strategic bombers Tu-95MS, the press-service of the United Aircraft-building Corporation told TASS on Tuesday.
Units of Russia's Baltic Fleet, Southern Military District, Airborne Force on combat alert TASS 17 Mar 2015 -- Units of the Baltic Fleet, Southern Military District and Airborne Forces have been brought to highest state of combat readiness in the framework of large-scale strategic drills, the Russian Defense Ministry's press service said on Tuesday.
Attack aircraft exercise launched in Siberia TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- Air Force manoeuvres to drill penetration of imaginary enemy's air defense by fighter attack aircraft have been launched in Siberia, the press service of the Eastern Military District reported on Monday.
The Trolls Who Came In From The Cold RFE/RL 16 Mar 2015
Belarus Sends Servicemen to Russia for Strategic Command Exercise Sputnik 17 Mar 2015 -- Belarusian servicemen will participate in a joint strategic command and staff exercise with the center command office of the Russian Armed Forces.
US, Germany Vow New Sanctions if Moscow Fails to Honor Ukraine Cease-Fire VOA 16 Mar 2015 -- The United States and Germany have vowed to continue punishing Russia with economic sanctions for its annexation of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula, and warned of new measures if Moscow fails to fully back a cease-fire it endorsed last month.
Russia Celebrates Crimea Annexation Anniversary RFE/RL 16 Mar 2015 -- Russia has kicked off weeklong celebrations marking the anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea, while the European Union denounces a military buildup and a worsening human rights situation in the Black Sea peninsula.
Russia Marks First Anniversary of Crimean Referendum Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Crimea refused to recognize the legitimacy of the government in Kiev that overthrew Russia-leaning President Viktor Yanukovych in early 2014, instead voting to cut ties with Ukraine and rejoin Russia in a plebiscite which found that over 96 percent of Crimean voters supported the motion.
Russian Inspectors to Fly Over Germany, Netherlands Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian inspectors will conduct an observation flight over Germany, as well as the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, on March 16-21 under the Treaty on Open Skies, head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center Sergei Ryzhkov announced.
Russia's Western Military District, Northern Fleet on combat alert amid snap check TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered to put the Northern Fleet, certain units of airborne forces and the Western Military District on full combat alert from 8:00 a.m. Moscow time on Monday as part of snap checks, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu has said at the National Defense Management Center.
Russia kicks off massive Arctic drills amid Ukraine tensions Press TV 16 Mar 2015 -- Russia has launched massive military drills in various parts of the country amid tensions with the West over the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Large-scale drills in Arctic to demonstrate Russia's military strength - experts TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- The ongoing surprise combat readiness check of Russia's army units deployed in the Arctic region is called to assess the efficiency of the recently established Sever (North) united strategic command and demonstrate Russia's strength to NATO countries, Russian military experts told TASS on Monday.
Putin orders Russia's Northern Fleet on full alert for drills Press TV 16 Mar 2015 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Russian Navy's Northern Fleet and paratrooper units on full alert, state media report.
Putin Orders Northern Fleet to Full Alert for Combat Readiness Drills Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin gave the order to bring the country's Northern Fleet to full alert in a snap combat readiness exercise Monday, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said.
Russian Northern Fleet submarines move to Barents Sea for combat readiness check TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- The Kola flotilla of mine sweepers will support the deployment of nuclear submarines of Russia's Northern Fleet in the Barents Sea within the framework of a sudden combat readiness inspection launched on Monday, the Defense Ministry said in a report, received by TASS.
Russia Starts Large-Scale Communications Drills in Nine Regions Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Units of Russia's signals troops began on Monday large-scale communications field exercises in nine regions of the Eastern Military District, the district's press service said.
Signals troops exercises start across Russia's East TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- Manoeuvres of the Signal Corps were launched on Monday in all forces and formations of the Eastern Military District, involving about 3,000 troops and more than 500 units of automobile and special equipment, spokesman for the district Colonel Alexander Gordeyev said on Monday.
Motorized Infantry Brigade in Russia's Kemerovo Region Gets 15 T-72B3 Tanks Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- A motorized infantry brigade in Russia's Kemerovo Region has received 15 modernized T-72B3 tanks, official representative of the Central Military District Col. Yaroslav Roschupkin announced.
Motorised infantry brigade in Russia's Siberia receives 15 modernized tanks TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- A motorised infantry brigade not far from Novosibirsk received another consignment of upgraded T-72B3 tanks, official representative of the Central Military District Yaroslav Poschupkin told TASS on Monday.
Russia Begins Air Force Tactical Drills in Siberia Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian fighter jets and ground support aircraft will practice penetration of 'enemy's' air defenses during a month-long exercise in Siberia, the Eastern Military District said Friday.
Army tactical exercises with live firing launched in North Caucasus foothills TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- Army tactical exercises were launched on Monday in Russia's Southern Military District in the foothills of the North Caucasian mountains. The press service of the Southern Military District reported that manoeuvres outside Stavropol involve more than 500 troops of the motorized rifle brigade stationed in Chechnya. They drill countering airstrikes and neutralizing imaginary militants.
Second Mistral-class helicopter carrier leaves port for sea trials in the Atlantic TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- The second Mistral-class helicopter carrier built for Russia, the Sevastopol, on Monday departed from the French port of Saint-Nazaire to undergo sea trials in the Atlantic near France's coast, according to the website of the international Automatic Identification System (AIS).
Moscow concerned about growing number of NATO drills near Russian borders - diplomat TASS 16 Mar 2015 -- Growing number of NATO drills near Russian borders leads to destabilization of the situation in north-eastern Europe, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexey Meshkov said on Monday.
Russia's Putin Reappears, Laughs Off Health Rumors VOA 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has reappeared in public following a 10-day absence, laughed off suggestions he had been forced to lie low because of poor health, saying on Monday that life would be "boring without gossip."
Russian president attends public meeting, proves health rumors wrong Press TV 16 Mar 2015 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin has proved wrong the rumors about his deteriorating health as he meets with his Kyrgyz counterpart.
Putin Reappears In Public, Jokes About Health Rumors RFE/RL 16 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has appeared in public for the first time since March 5. Putin met with Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambaev on March 16 at the Constantine Palace outside St. Petersburg.
Pakistan to Buy Russian Mi-35 Helicopter Gunships - President to Sputnik Sputnik 16 Mar 2015 -- Pakistan would like to expand military technical cooperation with Russia by purchasing Russian Mi-35 helicopter gunships, Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain told Sputnik.
Crimea May Have Faced Armed Conflict With Kiev - Russian Defense Minister Sputnik 15 Mar 2015 -- Crimea could have found itself in a situation that is currently unfolding in southeastern Ukraine, where Kiev forces have been fighting independence supporters for almost a year, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said in a documentary on Crimea's reunification with Russia.
Putin Reveals Details of Russia-Crimea Reunification, Maidan in Documentary Sputnik 15 Mar 2015 -- Andrei Kondrashov's movie, titled 'Crimea. Way Back Home' highlights the much-discussed reunification of the Crimean republic with Russia after 60 years under Ukrainian rule.
Putin Was 'Ready For Nuclear Alert' RFE/RL 15 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking in a prerecorded documentary about Russia's seizure of Crimea, said he was prepared to put Russia's nuclear weapons on alert during tensions over the crisis in Ukraine and Crimea.
German Rheinmetall Demands Compensation for Broken Deal With Russia Sputnik 15 Mar 2015 -- The company lost 120 million euro after German Minister for Economic Affairs prohibited Rheinmetall exports to Russia.
Venezuelan, Russian Troops Stage Large-Scale Military Exercises Sputnik 14 Mar 2015 -- The Venezuelan military is conducting massive air defense and artillery drills involving visiting Russian troops and hardware, the nation's Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez said Saturday.
Russian-Vietnamese Military Cooperation Threatens No One - Moscow Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- US statements that Russian-Vietnamese military cooperation undermines stability in Asia are puzzling, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Friday commenting on US plans to bar Moscow from using the military infrastructure in Vietnam.
Russian lawmakers slam US claim Vietnam should not let Russia use Cam Ranh military base TASS 13 Mar 2015 -- Russian lawmakers are criticising the United States' demands addressed to Vietnam to stop letting Russia refuel its military planes at the Cam Ranh base.
CSTO has 22,000 well-trained elite troops to protect members' sovereignty – CSTO chief TASS 13 Mar 2015 -- The Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has a whole arsenal of tools for protecting the sovereignty of the organization's member-countries in the event of an external threat, CSTO General Secretary Nikolay Bordyuzha told a news conference on Friday.
US admiral warns against Russia's increased military activity Press TV 13 Mar 2015 -- A US military commander has warned that Russia's military activities outside the country could "jeopardize" the US and Canada's ability to defend North America.
EU Lawmakers Call For International Probe Into Nemtsov's Assassination RFE/RL 13 Mar 2015 -- Members of the European Parliament have called for an independent international investigation into the killing of Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov.
Russian State TV Shows Putin For First Time In Days RFE/RL 13 Mar 2015 -- Russian state television has shown footage of President Vladimir Putin at a meeting the Kremlin says was held on March 13. State-run Rossia-24 showed video of Putin and Russian Supreme Court Chairman Vyacheslav Lebedev. Putin, 62, had not been seen publicly since March 5.
News Analysis: Three Scenarios For A Succession In Russia RFE/RL 13 Mar 2015 -- For a decade and a half, Vladimir Putin has sat at the top of a closed, hierarchical, and personality-based political system that allows for no competition.
Crimean Port City Sevastopol Ready to Host Mistral Helicopter Carriers Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- The Crimean city of Sevastopol is ready to host Mistral helicopter carriers as all works related to shipyard construction are finished, Adm. Igor Kasatonov, the former head of the Black Sea Fleet, said on Friday.
Two Modern Guided Missile Ships to Reinforce Russia's Naval Guard in 2015 Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- The first in the series, the Admiral Grigorovich, is set for at-sea testing at the end of March; the second, the Admiral Essen, is expected to leave dry-dock by the end of the year.
NATO Recon Missed Everything: Admiral Reveals Details of Crimea Operation Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- Mykolaiv, Kherson, Odessa. Only Sevastopol, Feodosiya and Gvardeyskoye airfield near Simferopol were left. These were humongous mistakes.'
Russian and Very Strong: Crimea's Military a Year Since Reunification Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- Less than a year after it unified with Russia, Crimea is home to a full-fledged military grouping and developments continue as the peninsula improves its security.
Moscow to NORAD Head: Yes, We Can Contain Your Missiles Better Now. Sorry. Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- Moscow has said it fully understands US concerns over Russia's growing military deterrence capabilities, and treats them with compassion.
Russia's Eastern Military District to Get Advanced Battle Tanks Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- More than 70 modernized T-72B3 tanks will be put into service in the Russian Eastern Military District before the end of this year.
Biological Threat Warning Center to Be Created in Russia by 2018 - Reports Sputnik 13 Mar 2015 -- A warning centre that will conduct monitoring work and will collect information on biological threats in Russia and abroad is expected to start operating in the country in the summer of 2018, the Russian Izvestia newspaper reports.
Foreign Ministry says Russia's defense cooperation poses no threat to regional security TASS 13 Mar 2015 -- Russia's cooperation with foreign partners in the defense sphere is not aimed against any third parties, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in the wake of the latest statements by US officials regarding Russian Air Force activities in the Asia-Pacific region.
Russia hopes to have hypersonic missile in 2020 TASS 13 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Perspective Research Foundation (FPI) is creating an integrated system of modeling for the development of hypersonic aircraft. The system will be made entirely of domestically produced computation modules, the fund's deputy general director, Vitaly Davydov, told TASS.
Russia, Serbia to Carry Out Joint Air Force Drills Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- Military pilots from Russia and Serbia will conduct joint training exercises in September 2015, the Russian Defense Ministry said Thursday.
US Concerned About Russian Use of Vietnam Base VOA 12 Mar 2015 -- The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi said it is unaware of any response from the Vietnamese government to its request that it stop allowing Russia to use a base to refuel bombers that have conducted provocative flights around U.S. territory in the Pacific.
Vietnam Military Blasts US for Interfering With Russian Refueling Flights Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- A senior Vietnamese military official told Sputnik that the US is interfering in Vietnam's internal affairs by demanding that the country puts a stop to Russian refueling plane landings at Cam Ranh airbase.
Russia launches military drills in south Press TV 12 Mar 2015 -- Russia has started major military exercises in the country's south amid tensions with the West over the ongoing crisis in neighboring Ukraine.
The Sick Man Of Moscow RFE/RL 12 Mar 2015 -- Vladimir Putin may well be seriously ill, or worse. (...) Whether Putin is sick, or 'is feeling fine,' as his spokesman Dmitry Peskov insists, the system he presides over is far from healthy. Even if Putin the man is in top form, the 'collective Putin,' Russia's informal ruling circle, is showing signs of deep distress.
Activist Barred From Visiting Nemtsov Slaying Suspects After Torture Claim RFE/RL 12 Mar 2015 -- A Russian human rights activist has been questioned by investigators after he said there were signs a suspect in opposition politician Boris Nemtsov's killing was tortured.
Just Because Russian Army Isn't There, Doesn't Mean US Won't See It Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- Russian Major General Igor Konashenkov said that Russia is no longer surprised with even the most incredible accusations from the US State Department and Pentagon over Russia's involvement in the Ukrainian conflict, which only pile up each time it stabilizes.
Massive Rocket Artillery Drills Begin in Crimea, Abkhazia, South Ossetia Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- Russian army artillery personnel in the Southern Military District began scheduled drills using new Hosta and Tornado-G systems.
Russian Reconnaissance Troops Get Advanced Drones Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- Sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have reportedly been put into service at the Russian Central Military District in Siberia.
Russian Black Sea Fleet Warships in Artillery, Missile Drills Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- A tactical group of Russian Black Sea warships is holding military exercises targeting decoy "enemy" bombers and ships, Black Sea Fleet information support head Capt. 1st Class Vyacheslav Trukhachyov said Thursday.
New Pacific Fleet Tug Boats Ready for Action Sputnik 12 Mar 2015 -- Tug boats which came into service at the end of last year are ready for the anticipated arrival of new nuclear submarines in Kamchatka this year.
Russian Defense Ministry may spend up to $4.7 billion on new weapons in 2015 TASS 12 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Defense Ministry may this year spend some 270-290 billion rubles ($4.4-4.7 billion) on research and design work to create promising weapons and hardware, Deputy Defense Minister Yury Borisov said Thursday.
Large-scale artillery, Black Sea Fleet drills launched in Russia TASS 12 Mar 2015 -- Country-wide maneuvers of artillery, reconnaissance troops, armour units and the Black Sea Fleet were launched in Russian on Thursday.
Airborne troops in Russia's Tula region receive new Rakushka armored personnel carriers TASS 12 Mar 2015 -- The first batch of the new Rakushka armored personnel carriers and BMD-4M airborne carrier vehicles was delivered to the Tula Airborne unit, representative of the Russian Defense Ministry's press service Yevgeny Meshkov said Wednesday.
US Slaps Sanctions on More Ukraine Rebels, Russian Bank VOA 11 Mar 2015 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on another group of individuals and entities in Ukraine and Russia accused of 'undermining Ukraine's sovereignty' and misappropriating Ukrainian state assets.
News Analysis: The Plot To Seize Crimea RFE/RL 11 Mar 2015 -- In early 2014, the world was caught off guard by one event after another in a crisis that culminated with Russia's annexation of the Ukrainian Black Sea peninsula of Crimea.
NATO Leaders Say Russia 'Still In Ukraine' RFE/RL 11 Mar 2015 -- NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has said that 'Russia is still in Ukraine' and urged Moscow to withdraw all its forces and to end its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.
NATO Fighter Jets Scramble to Intercept Russian Fuel Tanker Over Baltic Sea Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- Italian fighter jets protecting airspace over the Baltic states were deployed to intercept a Russian refueling aircraft over the Baltic Sea, Latvian National Armed Forces said via Twitter.
US Navy Deploys Drones Under Arctic Ice, Competes With Russia for Waterways Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- where the solid ice shelf meets the ocean – the frontier of the Arctic ice.
US Bullies Vietnam to Stop Military Cooperation With Russia Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- While expanding NATO bases closer to Russian borders, the US government is trying to bully Vietnam into stopping its military cooperation with Russia in the Pacific.
Russia has right to send nuclear arms to Crimea: Official Press TV 11 Mar 2015 -- A senior Russian official says his country reserves the right to deploy nuclear arms in the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which joined the Russian Federation last year.
Russia ready for talks on new Europe arms treaty: Official Press TV 11 Mar 2015 -- Russia has voiced its readiness for negotiations on a new deal to control conventional arms in Europe after Moscow announced an end to its activities under the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE).
Nemtsov Slaying Suspect Reportedly Retracts Confession; May Have Been Tortured RFE/RL 11 Mar 2015 -- A chief suspect in the killing of Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov has reportedly retracted his confession, suggesting it was made under duress, and a rights activist said there are signs he was tortured.
Russia's MiG-31 Interceptors to Stay in Service Until 2026 - Manufacturer Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- The Mykoyan MiG-31 Foxhound supersonic interceptor aircraft will stay in service with the Russian Air Force until 2026, the head of the MiG corporation said Wednesday.
Russia Signals Readiness to Discuss New European Arms Deal Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- Russia has indicated its intent to discuss a new agreement on Europe's conventional arms, a day after Moscow abandoned the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe.
Moscow Has Right to Place Nuclear Weapons in Crimea Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- Moscow has the right to place nuclear weapons in Crimea, but is not currently planning to do so, the head of the Department for Nonproliferation and Control of Arms of the Russian Foreign Ministry Mikhail Ulyanov said Wednesday.
Russia Launches Simultaneous Military Drills in West, South, Far East Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- A series of military exercises with live firing were launched Wednesday in Russia's southern and western regions and in the Far East, the Defense Ministry said.
Russian Tanks Destroy Tactical Airborne Landing in Pacific Island Exercise Sputnik 11 Mar 2015 -- The Russian army's tank units on Sakhalin Island practiced nuclear protection and repelled an airborne landing party in an exercise.
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry worried over Russia's suspension of CFE consultations TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry is concerned over Russia's decision to suspend participation in meetings of the Joint Consultative Group on the Treaty on Conventional Forces in Europe, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's speaker Yevgeny Perebeinos told a news briefing on Wednesday.
Sukhoi Su-25SM attack aircraft tactical flight training begins in Russia's south TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- Tactical flight training exercises with live firing have been launched in Russia's Stavropol region, the press service of the Southern Military District reported on Wednesday.
Tensions over intermediate nuclear force treaty high – Russian foreign ministry TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- The intermediate nuclear force (INF) Soviet-US treaty of 1987 that outlawed the intermediate and shorter range missiles is not falling apart yet, but tensions over it are soaring high, the director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's non-proliferation and arms control department, Mikhail Ulyanov, told a news conference on Wednesday.
Reviewing obligations under START treaty not on agenda now - Russian Foreign Ministry TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- Russia is not considering reviewing its obligations under START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty), Deputy Director of Russian Foreign Ministry's Department on Security Affairs and Disarmament Vladimir Leontyev said on Wednesday.
US violates NPT by training foreign pilots to use nuclear weapons - Russian diplomat TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- The United States violates provisions of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) by training pilots of its allied countries to use nuclear weapons, Mikhail Ulyanov, the head of the Foreign Ministry's non-proliferation department, said on Wednesday.
Deployment of Russian nuclear weapons in Crimea possible - Foreign Ministry TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- Russia can deploy nuclear weapons in Crimea as the peninsula is part of its territory, Mikhail Ulyanov, the head of the Foreign Ministry's non-proliferation department, said on Wednesday.
NATO disappointed with Russia's decision to suspend participation in CFE consultations TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- NATO is disappointed with Russia's decision to suspend participation in the Joint Consultative Group on the Treaty of Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE), the alliance's Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told a press conference in Brussels on Wednesday.
No prospects for creating analogue of CFE under current US administration – lawmaker TASS 11 Mar 2015 -- Russia's State Duma sees no prospects for creating an analogue of the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) under the current US Administration, head of the Duma Committee on Defense Vladimir Komoedov told TASS on Wednesday.
Russian Aggression Threatens European Security, Officials Say AFPS 10 Mar 2015 -- Russia is actively supporting violence in Ukraine, sending weapons and equipment to separatist forces and violating the "immediate and comprehensive cease-fire" called for in the Minsk agreement, officials told Congress today.
Nuland blasts Russian 'reign of terror' in eastern Ukraine Press TV 10 Mar 2015 -- The top US diplomat for Europe has accused Russia of unleashing "unspeakable violence and pillage" in eastern Ukraine which she said is living under "a reign of terror."
EU provoking confrontations with Russia: Lavrov Press TV 10 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Foreign Minister has leveled strident criticism at European Council President Donald Tusk and European diplomats for aggravating tensions between Moscow and the 28-member European Union (EU) over Ukraine crisis.
Putin Says Crimeans Were Surveyed Before Annexation Vote RFE/RL 10 Mar 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin says Russia quietly conducted an opinion survey to gauge Crimeans' appetite for annexation shortly before the March 2014 referendum on the issue.
Nuland Claims 400-500 Russian Soldiers Killed in Eastern Ukraine Sputnik 10 Mar 2015 -- Hundreds of Russian soldiers were killed during the crisis in eastern Ukraine, US Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Victoria Nuland said during a testimony before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Tuesday.

Hammond: Russia greatest threat to UK security Press TV 10 Mar 2015 -- British foreign secretary has described Russia as the "greatest threat" to UK national security.
Moscow Will Respond to NATO Military Buildup Near Russia's Border - Lavrov Sputnik 10 Mar 2015 -- Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov said that Moscow would respond to NATO military buildup near Russian border 'in an adequate way.'
Russia Completely Withdraws From Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty Sputnik 10 Mar 2015 -- Russia suspends its participation in the work of the Joint Consultative Group under the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe.
Russia suspends joint consultations on Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe TASS 10 Mar 2015 -- Russia has decided to suspend its participation in meetings of the joint consultative group on the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe (CFE) from March 11, 2015, Anton Mazur, the head of the Russian delegation to Vienna talks on military security and arms control, said on Tuesday.
Russian defense minister inspects troops stationed in Crimea TASS 10 Mar 2015 -- Russian Defense Minister General Sergey Shoigu on Tuesday checked the progress of the works for the installation of infrastructure for military units and formations in Crimea and Sevastopol, the ministry press service reported.
Russia's deputy PM: what NATO refers to as defense in reality is offensive TASS 10 Mar 2015 -- Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said on Tuesday he had witnessed the evolution of the concept of cyber defense while being Russia's ambassador to NATO: initially, NATO representatives spoke of cyber security, and starting from 2010 the term was transformed into cyber defense.
The Return Of Goodfellas RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- Back in the 1990s, Goodfellas jokes were popular among journalists working in Russia. And for good reason. Brazen public assassinations were common and contract hits were a popular method of resolving political and business disputes. Martin Scorsese's popular 1990 gangster flick seemed an apt metaphor.
In Annals Of Russian Crime, North Caucasians Remain Popular Scapegoat RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- At least one of the North Caucasus suspects in Nemtsov's killing, Zaur Dadayev, is said to have confessed to involvement in the February 27 assassination of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov in central Moscow.
Putin Recounts How He Gave Orders to 'Save' Yanukovych, 'Return' Crimea VOA 09 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he ordered security officials in February 2014 to make plans to 'save the life' of Viktor Yanukovych, Ukraine's then-president, and to start planning for Russia's annexation of Crimea.
Putin Says He Decided To Take Crimea Just Hours After Yanukovych's Ouster RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says he told senior security officials of his decision to take Crimea just hours after embattled Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych abandoned power.
US sends heavy military equipment to Baltic states to 'deter' Russia Press TV 09 Mar 2015 -- The United States has delivered over 100 pieces of heavy military equipment to the Baltic states in northern Europe to provide them with the ability to "deter" the perceived threat from Russia.
US, Czech Inspectors to Conduct Observation Flight Over Russia Sputnik 09 Mar 2015 -- American and Czech specialists will fly over Russia on March 9-14 under the Treaty on Open Skies, Sergei Ryzhkov, head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center has announced.
NATO accuses Russia of militarizing Crimea Press TV 09 Mar 2015 -- A top NATO general has accused Russia of having militarized Crimea, the former Ukrainian peninsula that joined Russia after a referendum last year.
Putin Awards Kadyrov With The Order Of Honor RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has granted Ramzan Kadyrov a high state medal, in a move made public a day after the Chechen leader defended a suspect in the killing of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov.
Nemtsov Allies Skeptical Of Russian Arrests RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- Allies of slain Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov have dismissed the versions presented by Russian investigators into the killing.
Mistral-class Sevastopol ship to undergo first sea trials March 16-20 TASS 09 Mar 2015 -- The amphibious assault helicopter carrier of the Mistral class, the Sevastopol, being built at France's St. Nazaire shipyards for Russia, will undergo the first sea trials on March 16-20, the contractor company DCNS told TASS, adding that the purpose of the checks will be test navigation systems.
Putin Decorates Suspect In Litvinenko Killing RFE/RL 09 Mar 2015 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has awarded a high state medal to Andrei Lugovoi, a lawmaker wanted by British police for the alleged murder of former Russian spy Aleksandr Litvinenko in London.
India Considers Buying Russian Fighter Jets Instead of French Rafale Sputnik 09 Mar 2015 -- India is looking to pursue a large-scale joint project with Russia for stealth Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA), following a standoff with France over a deal to acquire its Rafale jets, the Times of India reported Monday citing defense sources.
India to invest $25 billion in fifth-generation fighter joint project with Russia - media TASS 09 Mar 2015 -- India is ready to seal a big project with Russia for the stealth fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA), The Times of India wrote referring to the country's defense ministry.
UK Foreign Secretary Vows to Protect Baltic States From Russia Sputnik 08 Mar 2015 -- NATO will protect Baltic nations from Russia, UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond told BBC on Sunday.
Chechnya ex-police officer confesses role in Nemtsov killing Press TV 08 Mar 2015 -- A former Chechen police officer has confessed to his involvement in the recent assassination of the high-profile Russian opposition figure, Boris Nemtsov, in Moscow.
Two Charged In Nemtsov Killing RFE/RL 08 Mar 2015 -- Two men have been charged with involvement in the murder of Russian opposition figure Boris Nemtsov, as the five suspects in the case appeared in a Moscow court.
Russia Grows Maritime Potential, Returns to Global Geopolitics Sputnik 08 Mar 2015 -- Russia is growing its maritime potential, signaling its intention to regain geopolitical power as a naval force, according to experts.
Georgia's Parliamentary Chief Says Relations With Russia Deteriorating RFE/RL 07 Mar 2015 -- The chairman of Georgia's parliament says Tbilisi's relations with Russia have deteriorated since start of the war in eastern Ukraine between Ukrainian government forces and Russian-backed separatists.
International Space Station 'Lost' Without Russia - NASA Chief Sputnik 07 Mar 2015 -- A top NASA official confirmed Wednesday that the US has no backup plan to maintain the International Space Station if Russia should decide to pull out of the joint operation.
Russia Detains Two 'Caucasus' Men Suspected 'Of Committing' Nemtsov Killing RFE/RL 07 Mar 2015 -- Two suspects have been detained in connection with the killing last month in Moscow of Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov.
Two Detained in Nemtsov Murder Probe VOA 07 Mar 2015 -- Russia has detained two suspects in the murder of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, the head of Russia's federal security service told state television Saturday.
Russia to match US lethal aid to Ukraine: Top US diplomat Press TV 06 Mar 2015 -- A top US diplomat has said the United States will supply lethal arms to Ukraine if "aggression" from pro-Russian forces persists, but warned that Moscow would easily match the effort by sending more weapons into the country.
Nemtsov Relative Believes One Word May Have Cost Politician His Life RFE/RL 06 Mar 2015 -- From Islamist extremists to spurned lovers to Russian President Vladimir Putin, speculation continues to swirl about who killed opposition leader Boris Nemtsov last week, a stone's throw from the Kremlin, and why.
Reporter's Notebook: How Putin's Television Covered The Nemtsov Killing RFE/RL 06 Mar 2015
Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Released From Jail RFE/RL 06 Mar 2015 -- Prominent Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny has walked out of a Moscow detention center and vowed to continue challenging President Vladimir Putin's government folling the slaying of Kremlin critic Boris Nemstov.
War of Words: Moscow Not Planning on Creating 'Information Army' Sputnik 06 Mar 2015 -- The current information war between Russia and the United States will not compel Moscow to create an 'information army' like the one recently created in Ukraine, Russian Foreign Ministry said Friday.
Fifth Russian Yasen-Class Attack Nuclear Sub Begins Construction in March Sputnik 06 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Sevmash shipyard will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its fifth Yasen-class nuclear submarine, the Arkhangelsk, on March 19.
Russian Arctic Fleet Gets New All-Terrain Snow Vehicles Sputnik 06 Mar 2015 -- Russia's northern fleet has received the first of its new all-terrain tracked vehicles, which are able to transport cargoes of up to 4,000 kg through off-road conditions, fresh snow and swamps.
Over 40 Russian Fighter Jet Crews Hold Airstrike Drills in Barents Sea Sputnik 06 Mar 2015 -- More than 40 Russian fighter jet crews practiced destroying enemy missiles and aircraft during military exercises over the Barents Sea, the Russian Defense Minister said Friday.
Lithuanian President Tells Baltic States to Brace for 'Russian Aggression' Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite has urged the Baltic states to brace for what she described as 'Russian aggression.'
NATO: Many Russian Soldiers Dying in E. Ukraine VOA 05 Mar 2015 -- Russian soldiers are dying in 'large numbers' fighting alongside separatists in eastern Ukraine against government forces, a senior NATO official said Thursday.
NATO: Russian Troops Dying In 'Large Numbers' In Eastern Ukraine RFE/RL 05 Mar 2015 -- A senior NATO official says Russian troops are dying in combat in 'large numbers' in eastern Ukraine, where they have been fighting along pro-Russian rebels since last year.
Russia accuses NATO of expansionism Press TV 05 Mar 2015 -- Russia's deputy defense minister has accused NATO of using the Ukrainian crisis as a pretext to deploy forces to territories closer to Russian borders, saying the alliance has hugely expanded its military activities in recent years.
Russia launches air defense drills amid tensions with West Press TV 05 Mar 2015 -- The Russian military is holding massive military exercises in the country's southeast amid Moscow's rising tensions with the West over the crisis in Ukraine.
Moscow dismisses NATO allegations that Russia conducts large-scale nuclear drills TASS 05 Mar 2015 -- Moscow on Thursday dismissed NATO's allegations that Russia conducts large-scale military exercises to drill the use of nuclear weapons, the Foreign Ministry said.
Russia Holds Big Military Drills In South, Crimea, Abkhazia, South Ossetia RFE/RL 05 Mar 2015 -- The Russian military says more than 2,000 servicemen are taking part in 'large-scale' air-defense exercises in southern Russia, Crimea, and the breakaway Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
EU to Lift Anti-Russia Sanctions Only After Minsk Accords Fulfilment Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- The European Union should only lift its anti-Russia sanctions when the Minsk agreements are fully complied with, UK Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said Thursday.
Russian Artillery Deploys Covertly, Launches Strikes in Baltic Exercise Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- Over 700 Russian Baltic Fleet gunners and 150 units of military equipment are conducting artillery exercises at Kaliningrad region training grounds, the Western Military District's press service announced.
Russian Military Receives Second Batch of New S-300V4 Air Defense Systems Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Air Defense Forces have received their second batch of a new modification of the S-300 surface-to-air system, with expanded anti-aircraft, anti-cruise and anti-ballistic missile capabilities.
Russia Dismisses Reports of Military Concentration on Ukrainian Border Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- Russia denies it has a large concentration of troops along the Ukrainian border, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov said Thursday.
Over 2,000 Russian Anti-Air Defense Soldiers Begin Drills in Crimea Sputnik 05 Mar 2015 -- More than 2,000 Russian military personnel from air defense units have begun exercises in the country's south, including on the Crimean Peninsula, the Russian Defense Ministry's South Military District's press service announced Thursday.
Russian Policeman Gets 15-Year Sentence For Spying For U.S. RFE/RL 05 Mar 2015 -- A court in Moscow has convicted a Russian police officer from Siberia on charges of spying for the United States and sentenced him to 15 years in prison.
Russia to hold artillery drills at testing range in Armenia TASS 04 Mar 2015 -- Artillery units of the Russian military base in Armenia will conduct field exercises at the Alagyaz high-mountain training complex, the press service of the Southern Military District told TASS on Wednesday.
Russian Activist Vows to Publish Nemtsov's Ukraine Findings VOA 04 Mar 2015 -- Russian opposition activists say they will publish documents gathered by opposition leader Boris Nemtsov before his February 27 murder that purport to show Russia's direct military role in Ukraine.
Russia begins month-long military drills in Urals Press TV 04 Mar 2015 -- Russia has launched month-long military drills in three regions of the Urals, involving 4,500 servicemen, as the country is boosting its defense capabilities amid NATO expansion in Eastern Europe.
Putin Tells Police To Avert 'Shame' Of Political Killings RFE/RL 04 Mar 2015 -- President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia must rid itself of 'shame and tragedies' like opposition politician Boris Nemtsov's slaying, and told police they must solve political killings.
Russian Military Unveils Revolutionary Electronic Warfare System Sputnik 04 Mar 2015 -- Russia's new Richag-AV radar and sonar jamming system can be mounted on helicopters, ships and other military equipment to jam potential adversaries' weapons systems from distances of several hundred kilometers away; it has been hailed by developers as having no analogue anywhere in the world.
Russian Jets Penetrate NATO Ships' Air Defenses in Black Sea Sputnik 04 Mar 2015 -- Russia's newest Su-30 multirole fighter jets, together with Su-24 attack bombers have been using NATO ships' movements in the Black Sea to practice attack scenarios.
Unannounced Test of Strategic Nuclear Weapons Readiness Starts in Russia Sputnik 04 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Strategic Missile Forces (SMF) have begun an unannounced test of its nuclear weapons near the central Russian city Yoshkar-Ola, the SMF's press center said Wednesday.
Over 4,500 Russian Military Servicemen Begin Drills in Western Siberia Sputnik 04 Mar 2015 -- More than 4,500 Russian military personnel have begun exercises in three regions of the Urals, the Russian Defense Ministry said Wednesday.
Russian Bombers Interrupt Commercial Flights in Irish Airspace - Reports Sputnik 04 Mar 2015 -- Services of several commercial aircraft were interrupted due to proximity with two Russian bombers in Irish-controlled airspace, Irish Examiner newspaper reported.
Russia, Egypt to Hold Joint Naval Drills in the Mediterranean in 2015 Sputnik 03 Mar 2015 -- Russia and Egypt agreed on Tuesday to conduct joint naval exercises in the Mediterranean Sea and anti-terrorism drills in 2015, the Russian Defense Ministry said.
Russia to boost naval capabilities in 2015 Iran Press TV 03 Mar 2015 -- Russia's navy chief says Moscow plans to boost the country's naval capabilities by expanding its naval fleet with 50 ships this year.
Russian Opposition Leader Nemtsov Laid To Rest In Moscow RFE/RL 03 Mar 2015 -- Slain Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov has been laid to rest following an emotional farewell ceremony attended by thousands of mourners.
EU Commission Ponders Neighborhood Policy, Closer Ties With Russia RFE/RL 03 Mar 2015 -- The European Commission is questioning whether to drop its European Neighborhood Policy (ENP) and appears open to the possibility of closer cooperation with Russia.
Russian Army Liberates Town Using Drones, Mi-28 Night Hunters in Exercise Sputnik 03 Mar 2015 -- A motorized infantry brigade stationed in Chechnya has begun exercises in which a town captured by illegal armed formations is liberated with the help of drones and close air support.
Major Artillery Drills Begin in Russian Far East - Defense Ministry Sputnik 03 Mar 2015 -- More than 2,500 artillerymen are currently taking part in a major military exercise in Russia's Far East, the Eastern Military District press service said in a statement Tuesday.
Missile Forces Drills From Baltic Fleet Kick Off in Russia's Kaliningrad Sputnik 03 Mar 2015 -- Joint Missile Forces from the Baltic Fleet have begun in Russia's exclave of Kaliningrad, the Defense Ministry's Western Military Region for the Baltic Fleet's press service said Tuesday.
Second Mistral Built for Russia Begins Sea Trials in March Sputnik 03 Mar 2015 -- The Sevastopol, the second Mistral-class helicopter carrier built for Russia, is slated to begin sea trials in March, according to a representative of the French shipbuilding industry.
Russia Opposition Leader Laid to Rest VOA 03 Mar 2015 -- Thousands of mourners paid respects to Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, the fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin gunned down late last week just steps from the Kremlin.
Russia, Ukraine Agree on Gas Delivery Deal Through March VOA 02 Mar 2015 -- Russia and Ukraine have agreed on a gas delivery deal through the end of March, despite the conflict over pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Lavrov warns against politicizing Nemtsov case Iran Press TV 02 Mar 2015 -- The Russian foreign minister has warned against "politicized' and 'provocative' interpretations of the murder of opposition figure Boris Nemtsov.
Kasparov: 'Putin Is Accountable For This Bloodshed' RFE/RL 02 Mar 2015 -- As partners in Russia's struggling opposition movement, Garry Kasparov and Boris Nemtsov didn't always have the smoothest of friendships. But the former chess champion says his respect for Nemtsov - shot dead at age 55 a stone's throw from the Kremlin walls - is absolute.
Main Witness In Nemtsov Slaying Case: I Didn't See Killer RFE/RL 02 Mar 2015 -- The woman who was with Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov when he was gunned down near the Kremlin says she did not see the killer because he came from behind.
Russian Security Expert: Time, Place Of Nemtsov's Killing Had 'Symbolic Significance' RFE/RL 02 Mar 2015 -- The killing of opposition Russian politician Boris Nemtsov occurred just steps from the Kremlin in one of the most heavily monitored locations in Moscow.
Russian Navy to Receive 50 New Vessels Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Navy will receive 50 vessels of different kinds, Navy Commander Viktor Chirkov reported.
Russian Forces Carry Out Live Fire Drills With S-400 Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- Russian forces from the Eastern Command held live fire exercises with the cutting-edge S-400 Triumph air defense missile system in the Volga region. The S-400 successfully intercepted target missiles, mimicking an incoming enemy launch.
Russian Air Force to Receive New Aircraft Tanker in 2018 Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- The Il-78M-90A tanker is a version of the Il-76MD-90A aircraft. The new aircraft will be the main aerial tanker designed for refueling aircraft of long-range, front-line and special aviation.
Two Nuclear Submarines to Join Russian Naval Combat Forces in 2015 Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- Russia expects eight vessels of the Borei project to enter service by 2020. Each of Borei-class submarines can carry 16 Bulava-30 intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Russia's Defense Ministry Removes An-70 From National Armament Program Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- Russia's Ministry of Defense has removed the Antonov An-70 military transport aircraft, jointly developed by Russia and Ukraine, from its national armament program, the Izvestia newspaper said.
Submarine Warfare in Arctic: Russia Mastering New Underwater Tactics Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- Commanders of Russia's Northern Fleet are mastering new ways of using deadly underwater weapons in the High Arctic, the press service of the Northern Fleet reported.
Russian Military on Kuril Islands to Get Brand New Laser Ranging Devices Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- LPR-3 is designed to determine location of ground targets. These laser ranging devices are also used for shell bursting, range finding and visual reconnaissance.
US Calls for Investigation of Boris Nemtsov Murder VOA 02 Mar 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the murder of Russian opposition politician and activist Boris Nemtsov. Former Russian chess champion and rights activist Garry Kasparov says he is shattered by the news and says it comes amid an atmosphere of propaganda and hatred aimed at opponents of President Vladimir Putin.
Kerry Warns Russia's Lavrov On Ukraine Cease-Fire RFE/RL 02 Mar 2015 -- U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry says Russia will inevitably face further economic sanctions if agreements on a cease-fire deal and steps toward peace in eastern Ukraine are not implemented.
EU Mediates Gas Talks Between Russia, Ukraine VOA 02 Mar 2015 -- Russia and Ukrainian energy ministers got together for key gas talks in Brussels, amid threats by Russia's Gazprom to cut off deliveries to Ukraine.
US, Germany to Carry Observation Flight Over Russia Sputnik 02 Mar 2015 -- The observation flights will be carried out on March 2-7 on the Boeing OC-135B Open Skies aircraft.
Russian Inspectors to Fly Over Spain, Portugal Under Open Skies Treaty Sputnik 01 Mar 2015 -- Russian inspectors will conduct observation flights over the territories of Spain and Portugal at the beginning of March, under the Treaty on Open Skies, head of Russia's National Nuclear Risk Reduction Center Sergei Ryzhkov has announced.
Over 70,000 march to commemorate slain Russian opposition figure Nemtsov Iran Press TV 01 Mar 2015 -- More than 70,000 people have marched in central Moscow in commemoration of assassinated prominent Russian opposition figure Boris Nemtsov.
Tens of Thousands Take Part In Nemtsov Memorial March In Moscow RFE/RL 01 Mar 2015 -- Tens of thousands of Russians have marched through central Moscow to mourn slain opposition politician Boris Nemtsov and express outrage at the Kremlin over his killing.
Nemtsov: Kremlin-Watchers Find Eerie Parallel In An 80-Year-Old Murder RFE/RL 01 Mar 2015 -- On December 1, 1934, a killing took place that would set the stage for one of the blackest chapters in Soviet history.
Russia's SMF Ready to Repel a 'Lightning-Speed' Nuclear Strike Sputnik 01 Mar 2015 -- The Russian Strategic Missile Forces are prepared to shield the country from a nuclear attack under any circumstances, the SMF Central Command's chief said.
Russian Opposition Marches in Tribute to Murdered Leader VOA 01 Mar 2015 -- Tens of thousands of people marched in central Moscow Sunday to mourn murdered opposition leader Boris Nemtsov.
Bill Browder Tells VOA Russian About Boris Nemtsov Murder VOA 01 Mar 2015 -- British citizen Bill Browder is the co-founder of the Hermitage Capital Management fund that has been described as one of the biggest foreign investors in Russia from 1995 to 2006. A noted critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Browder was banned from Russia in 2006 after calling attention to corruption and tax evasion by Russian businessmen.
Russia Expels Western Double Agent Sputnik 01 Mar 2015 -- Russia expelled senior inspector of Latvian civilian aviation Andrejs Dudarevs (Andrei Dudarev) known as 'agent Thomas'. According to the Federal Security Service (FSB) he spied for Latvian and American intelligence agencies.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2015 - Russia Special Weapons News