Reform in the Russian Army: Prospects for the Success of a Non-Conscripted Force
Abstract
Ready or not, the Russian Army is shifting from a largely conscripted to an all-volunteer force. The intended result of this shift is a professional, capable army, befitting a world power. Unfortunately, this shift has all but stalled. Due partly to its hastily contrived implementation and partly to a pattern of half-hearted and haphazard military reform measures, this transition now appears to be contributing to the opposite than desired effect. The Russian Army today is largely a dispirited, debilitated force in disarray. Russia's hope to professionalize its force remains unfulfilled. Much work awaits President Putin and his new defense team in this regard. Resurrecting this needed transition demands immediate review of flawed policies and procedures and enactment of wholly new initiatives. The prospects for success do not appear promising in the near term. Remaining attentive to the Russian Army's transitional troubles serves U.S. interests. Meaningful peacetime engagement and regional stability weigh in the balance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 25, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA391911
Entities
People
- Kevin P. Mcgrath
Organizations
- United States Army War College