Russian Defense Industry Exports Stabilizing at $6B/Year, But Structure May Change

SU-30, Export Star Back in April 2005, DID noted that Russia’s 2004 arms exports had risen to $5.78 billion as part of a five-year pattern of successively larger exports since 2000. Those figures appear to be stable, as Russian arms trader Rosoboronexport says that it has collected a portfolio of orders that is estimated to be worth $12 billion though 2007-2008 “We have orders for approximately $12 billion to be fulfilled by 2007-2008.” Meanwhile, Rosoboronexport itself is changing its structure to become a state-owned corporation. It also seems to be trying to position itself as the procurement hub for domestic and international procurement of Russian weapons – one involved in export orders, defense tenders, and even new designs. Making a comeback?(click to view full) With respect to specific areas of strength for Russian defense exports, the firm noted that: “Rosoboronexport is closely following trends on the world arms market and adjusting its marketing policy, he said. [Chemezov] predicted growing demand in the next few years for air defense and electronic devices, guided anti-tank weapons, night vision equipment and fire control systems. In addition, the demand may grow for armaments for the land forces, especially tanks and armored vehicles, multi-role hardware […]