Russian Navy won't see young lieutenants in 5 years

15.06.2010 There will be no young lieutenants in Russian Navy in five years, since all branches of Naval Academy canceled enrollment, informed Rosbalt referring to Capt 1 rank Sergei Gorbachev, defense expert.

He said that because of cancellation of enrollment in 2010, naval educational institutions would not certify officers in five years. "These things set one question – what is Russian leaders' perception of Navy's future? Judging from the happening process, the reform is inadequate to challenges of the 21st century. We're simply reducing", complains Gorbachev.

He pointed out that operational zone of Black Sea Fleet has been considerably decreased within the last 18 years. "It was previously said that operational zone of BSF is the Mediterranean Sea from Gibraltar to Suez Canal. Some time ago the BSF forces were deployed off Sahara (East Atlantic) and in Indian Ocean. Currently, there's no point to speak about presence beyond the Black Sea", concluded the expert.

As for Sergei Gorbachev, tasks of BSF are geographically limited as well. "To be honest, BSF can perform tasks only within the Black Sea – securing southwest maritime direction, cooperation with North Caucasus Military District, and maintaining stability of sea lanes in the Black Sea (Blue Stream gas pipeline, tankers). Another issue is securing Russia's economic zone, in particular – enhancing security while preparing for Winter Olympics 2014", said the officer.

On the other hand, as for Sergei Gorbachev, actions of military leaders often vary from their statements. "As for now, all types of ships, aircraft, and coastal facilities are obsolete. Situation with contract servicemen is awful at Black Sea Fleet. Judging by rhetoric of high-ranking commanders, in prospect the emphasis will be placed on draftees, although one can't become a professional in one year. Note that category of warrant officers has been completely wiped off. Officers are also being fired; their performance motivation has been undermined", confessed the expert.

We recall that manpower of Black Sea Fleet will be reduced to the level lower than 24,000. That was said by Viktor Ozerov, chairman of parliamentary defense committee after report of defense minister Anatoly Serdiukov.