Join CSIS for a panel discussion examining the state of Russia's modern military. Register here. 

After ten years of military modernization and defense reform, Russia's military is now a reliable instrument of national power that can be used in a limited context to achieve vital national interests. Russian strategists, concerned about instability along the Russian periphery or an aerospace attack on the Russian heartland, are focused on preserving influence in buffer states and on reinforcing defensive bulwarks. Russian military strategy and operations show an increasing degree of coordination, deception, and simultaneity to achieve objectives quickly while minimizing vulnerabilities. What does the evolution of Russia’s armed forces, its strategy, and the way it uses force tell us about the future?

Speakers:

Scott Boston, Defense Analyst, RAND

Dara Massicot, Policy Researcher, RAND

Michael Kofman (moderator), Research Scientist, Russia Studies Program, CNA

Olga Oliker (discussant), Senior Adviser and Director, Russia and Eurasia Program, CSIS