Russian military doctrine will not improve NATO ties

Subject

Russian military doctrine.

Significance

The Russian government adopted a new military doctrine on December 26. Everything from military procurement decisions to force structuring flows from this foundational strategy document. However, the military fundamentals are largely unchanged from the 2010 version, despite much tougher language on the threats and risks to Russia and some updates to reflect changes to Russian operational art. As a result, the new doctrine is best seen as a political document, reflecting Moscow's increasingly and openly hostile perspective on the West.

Impacts

• There are no substantive changes to overall pace and direction of military reform due to new doctrine but certain projects may be delayed.
• The document does affirm Russia's growing commitment to hybrid and information war.
• The doctrine enshrines the new Kremlin view that Russia faces an continuing campaign by West to limit its authority.