The Hidden Challenges of Modernizing Russia's Military

The Kremlin will show off some new military hardware at its annual Victory Day parade on May 9. On display will be a number of new military vehicles developed by the domestic defense industry — the symbolic cornerstones of a modernized Russian military. This pageantry, however, belies the significant challenges the Kremlin faces in its efforts to update and improve its defense capabilities. Chief among these is the Ukraine crisis, which has put Russia's access to vital military components in question. Western sanctions triggered by Russian actions in Ukraine and the resulting drop in oil prices have weakened the national economy, further constraining the industry. These restrictions have forced Russia to promote joint manufacturing abroad and to boost domestic production to make the Russian defense industry more competitive.