Russian blogger reveals critical flaws in military stockpile management
A Russian military blogger has unveiled the truth about the extensive Russian stockpiles of military equipment. Here are his observations.
The Russian military blogger posted a comprehensive analysis on VKontakte regarding the current supply of equipment replacements and the capabilities of the Russian production industry.
He criticizes the Soviet practice of storing equipment outdoors without even the simplest hangars, giving it a failing grade. However, the Russian authorities deserve criticism for neglecting this situation. As a result, for several decades, the stored equipment exposed to rain and snow has deteriorated significantly and requires extensive work to be restored.
As an example, he notes that on average, three BMP-1/2s are needed to assemble one functional vehicle after a complete overhaul. Moreover, the situation is made worse by the fact that the best models were earmarked for export, for example, to Syria, leaving the inferior models for domestic use, and the supposedly vast Russian military-industrial complex is a facade.
He explains that for years the industry practically relied on the legacy of the USSR, with equipment undergoing repairs and upgrades before being sold. Current companies, unlike those during the USSR era, are unable to physically produce new equipment. This is starting to impact production capabilities after exhausting the post-Soviet stock as production bases.
The Russian military blogger also notes that a large order for artillery ammunition for arms companies only came about in 2022, following a significant reduction in the number of factories in the 1990s and 2000s.
The Russian wants to emulate European storage models
He argues that restructuring storage warehouses will be one of the most critical tasks after the conclusion of the "special operation" (as the war in Ukraine is referred to by Russians). He points to Germany as an example, where Leopard tanks are stored in heated hangars. Tanks are stored similarly in a Belgian private warehouse, OIP.
As a minimum measure, he suggests placing equipment exclusively on concrete slabs instead of grass, as is often done now, and directing hot air pipes to each vehicle to dry the interior. Meanwhile, rain protection should at least include simple shelters or waterproof covers. He is likely referring to something similar to what is used at damaged car auctions in the USA.
