President Vladimir Putin on Friday praised the performance of Russia’s defence export sector, saying it continues to expand its global reach and generate strong revenues despite mounting pressure from Western countries.
Speaking at a meeting on military-technical cooperation held at the Kremlin, Putin said Russian-made military equipment was delivered to more than 30 countries last year, bringing in over $15 billion in foreign currency earnings.
Sector Operating Under Strain
Putin acknowledged that the industry is functioning under challenging circumstances, citing sustained efforts by Western nations to disrupt Russia’s defence trade.
“Pressure from Western countries has not only continued but intensified, with attempts to slow or block business relations with Russia,” he said. “Nevertheless, despite these efforts, our export contracts have largely been fulfilled in a consistent manner.”
Africa Emerges as Key Market
According to Putin, African countries have shown particular interest in deepening military and technical cooperation with Russia, even as Western pressure persists.
“Despite pressure from the West, African partners are demonstrating readiness to expand cooperation with Russia in the military and military-technical spheres,” he said.
Russia has in recent years strengthened ties with several African states, placing military cooperation at the centre of those relationships.
Expanding Military Partnerships
The Central African Republic has relied on Russian security assistance since 2018, when it turned to fighters from the Wagner Group to counter armed rebel groups. The country’s president, Faustin-Archange Touadera, who was recently re-elected, has invited Putin to visit.
Russia has also expanded defence and security ties with military-led governments in Mali and Burkina Faso, reinforcing its influence in the region through training, equipment supply, and security cooperation.