The Arctic will not be a peaceful exception in a militarized world. In this post I compare the security situation in the Baltic and the Arctic. Both regions are militarized these days, but in very different ways. The most dangerous dynamics are in the Arctic, and it will get worse in the coming years.
Russia
Russia orders two more frigates and large landing ships
Russia has ordered two more Gorshkov-class frigates and two more Ivan Gren class landing ships. With this purchase they will have a total of six Gorshkov-class and four Ivan Gren class.
Update on Russia’s weapon development programs
Russia has some impressive new weapons under development, but many of the projects have been struck by problems and delays. Here is an overview of how things are going with the most spectacular programs.
Russia gets dedicated mobile network for military personnel
Russia’s new phone operator “Voentelekom” specializes in cellular connections for the military. This allows more secure mobile connections but also tighter surveillance of their own employees.
Another example of how we overrate Russia’s air defense weapons
The British Air Vice-Marshal Simon Rochelle has some dramatic assumptions about the usability of NATO aircraft in future peer-level wars. But a new FOI report calls for more cool-headed estimates of Russia’s air defense weapons.
New ships to expect for Russia’s navy in 2019
Here is a list of 11 new warships for Russia’s navy in 2019. It includes some large submarines and a new frigate.
Frigate “Neustrashimy” set to re-join Baltic Fleet in November 2019
It looks like the frigate “Neustrashimy” will be back in service after five years under repair. With a little luck, all the big ships in the Russian Baltic Fleet will be operational for the first time in a long time.
Russia has found money to repair the flagship of the Baltic Fleet
The destroyer “Nastoichivy” is now set to re-enter service after many years in inoperable condition. It is a Sovremenny-class ship which is known to have an unreliable propulsion system.
Russia equips Gorshkov-class frigates with laser dazzlers
Russia’s new frigates now have a laser dazzler that can blind an opponent. The 5P-42 “Filin” system works in dark conditions against both human eyes and electronic sensors. It is mostly intended as a short-range self defense weapon.
Russia increases number of tanks in Kaliningrad
A new tank regiment has been formed in Kaliningrad. This more than doubles the number of tanks in the Russian enclave.
