Q&A · 4:02:32-4:04:06

Preparing the Soviet Navy for a future breakup

Foreknowledge of the Soviet breakup leads to proposals for Russian turbine production and a fleet less dependent on separated industries.

Question

What would you build in the Soviet Navy of the 1970s and 1980s if you knew the union would break up?

Short answer

Develop gas-turbine production in Russia, build frigates and replenishment ships, and seek nuclear-powered major ships for distant deployments.

Notes

This scenario gives a Soviet naval planner advance knowledge that the union will break up. The proposed response includes gas-turbine production inside Russia so future Russian ships would not depend entirely on Ukrainian facilities. Gas-turbine frigates and replenishment ships would provide local presence and support. Nuclear-powered cruisers and a small carrier force are suggested for distant deployments and status. Submarine development would remain broadly similar to the historical programme.