President Vladimir Putin signed a new naval doctrine on Sunday (31 July) that positions the United States as Russia’s main rival.While inspecting the country’s fleet, the leader set out Russia’s global maritime ambitions for key areas such as the Arctic and the Black Sea.Putin spoke on National Navy Day in the former imperial capital of St. Petersburg – the city founded by Tsar Peter the Great.
The president praised Peter for making Russia a great naval power and raising the global standing of the Russian state.Shortly before, Putin signed a new 55-page doctrine outlining the navy’s strategic goals and ambitions as a “great naval power” spanning the globe.It says the main threat to Russia is “US strategic policy to dominate the world’s oceans”, as well as the NATO military alliance approaching its borders.If soft power, such as diplomatic and economic instruments, are exhausted, the doctrine asserts that Russia can use appropriate military force.
Putin did not mention the conflict in Ukraine during his speech.But the military doctrine envisages “strengthening Russia’s geopolitical position” in the Black and Azov seas – and says the Arctic Ocean is of particular importance.The US has repeatedly said that Russia is trying to militarize the region.Putin added that delivery of Russia’s “unique” Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles will begin within months.
Emphasizing his ambition to be able to respond to threats to Russian sovereignty “with lightning speed”.Hypersonic weapons can travel at nine times the speed of sound. Over the past year, Russia has test-fired Zircon missiles from warships and submarines.
