![]() Late last month, Putin ordered military leaders to make urgent improvements to the armed forces in the next few years, saying Russia must thwart Western attempts to tip the balance of power. In 13 years in power, he has often cited external threats when talking of the need for reliable armed forces and Russian political unity. Putin has stressed the importance of a strong and agile military since returning to the presidency last May. Peskov said 36 warships and an unspecified number of planes would take part, but not how long exercises would last. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Putin triggered the maneuvers as he flew back overnight from South Africa after a summit of the BRICS emerging economies. ![]() Officials suggested the surprise drill would test reaction speed and combat readiness, but Putin’s order also seemed a signal to the West of Russia’s presence in the region. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during closing remarks at the fifth BRICS Summit in Durban, March 27, 2013. ![]()
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