16.11.2009
Russia plans to expand naval presence in World Ocean, said the President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev.
He affirmatively answered the question whether Russia has an intention to expand naval presence in World Ocean. "Yes, we have such plans. Russia may only considered a real sea power if it has a real Navy. Not a virtual or dummy but capable to accomplish various missions – both training and combat ones – at any point of the planet", said Medvedev at Monday meeting with sailors of RNS
Varyag in Singapore.
Russia has "financial possibilities and desire to strengthen our Navy", underlined the president.
"That is on behalf of not only Russia but other countries as well, the whole international community", said Medvedev having mentioned piracy among those problems Russian Navy could help to deal with.
"But one needs to have an effective Navy for presence in World Ocean. Our objective is to invest as much funds as possible in development of our Navy", he said.
Such development program exists and "next year certain steps are to be taken there", added Medvedev.
The President reminded that in his message to Federal Assembly he had said about increase in naval capabilities in 2010.
"That will not be a one-shot activity. This program will progress; I mean commission of submarines and surface ships. We will launch the program next year", said Medvedev, informs
Interfax.
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