Rafale “Defeats” Su-35 Fighters To Overtake Russia To Become France’s Top Defense Exporter
Amidst a burgeoning demand for arms in Russia’s war economy, the nation’s arms exports have seen a significant decline. However, this downturn has paved the way for France, a European country keen on expanding its arms sales, to fill the void.
Adding to Russia’s woes, the British Ministry of Defense (MoD) recently highlighted the decrease in Russian arms exports in a video released on March 21. The MoD’s statement on Platform X noted, “Amidst the pressures of war, Russia has slipped down the rankings of top defense exporters.”
Based on a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) regarding global arms transfers, the video emphasized that Russia has experienced a 53% decline in global arms transfers since 2019. Furthermore, while 31 countries received arms from Russia in 2019, only 12 did so in 2023.
“The decline is likely due to Russia prioritizing equipment for operations in Ukraine and reduced customer demand due to underwhelming performance on the battlefield,” noted the report on Platform X.
In the wake of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and subsequent international sanctions, Russian arms shipments have plummeted. According to SIPRI data, China, Egypt, and India were the top recipients of Russian weapons between 2019 and 2023. However, there was a notable decrease in the quantity of equipment these countries purchased from Russia in 2023.
“Between the two periods, Russian arms exports to India decreased by 34%, while exports to China decreased by 39% and to Egypt by 54%. Algeria and Vietnam, which were Russia’s third and fourth-largest recipients in 2014-18, saw their exports drop by 83% and 91%,” SIPRI analysts reported.
Despite Russia’s claims of steady arms transfers, the figures indicate a sharp decline. This decline has been exemplified in instances like the delayed delivery of the S-400 air defense system to Armenia, resulting in the country seeking alternative arms suppliers.
Reports suggest that the war may have contributed to delays in arms deliveries, including the S-400 air defense system to India.
Despite ongoing hostilities, Russia continues to showcase its advanced arms at international air shows. However, its focus on the Ukraine conflict, coupled with a decline in arms production due to international sanctions, has raised suspicions globally.
Many countries traditionally reliant on Russian arms have begun diversifying their suppliers and promoting local arms production. This steep decline in Russian arms exports has presented opportunities for the United States and France. According to SIPRI data, France
Post Credit: Eurasiantimes.com
