Russia has been producing military weapons and equipment in excess of its actual needs in Ukraine, according to German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Pistorius claimed that Moscow is working beyond simply replenishing its stockpiles, hinting at the country’s bigger military ambitions. He also revealed that a significant portion of the surplus weapons no longer goes to the frontline, but ends up in warehouses.
Pistorius stressed that Russia’s ability to produce more than it needs is due to increased defense spending and transition to a war economy. This surplus production has allowed Russia to quickly replenish its stockpiles, despite international sanctions, giving it the upper hand in Ukraine. The Russian defense ministry announced the induction of over 1,500 new main battle tanks (MBTs) in 2023 to support its war campaign, with the capacity to produce 100 MBTs per month.
Concerns about Russia’s suspected plans to attack a NATO member state by 2026 are mounting, as indicated by a recent German intelligence report. The report suggests that Russia’s increased military production is preparing for a major conflict beyond the war in Ukraine, potentially doubling its military strength in the next few years.
