Russia's armed forces : Reforms and challenges : in-depth analysis

After a long period of neglect and decline, the Russian armed forces have once again taken centre stage. On top of their alleged involvement in Ukraine, incursions into the airspace and territorial waters of neighbouring countries are becoming more frequent, and large-scale military drills have been held throughout the country. The traditional Victory Day parade through Moscow on 9 May celebrates Russian military prowess. In line with their increasingly active role, the Russian armed forces are undergoing a modernisation process with sweeping reforms and a major rearmament programme. In the context of rising tensions with NATO and a potentially escalating conflict in Ukraine, the crucial question is whether the country now has a modern fighting machine capable of taking on a more substantial adversary