Russia aims to maintain second place in global arms exports

State corporation Rostec has approved a new development strategy through 2036 aimed at preserving Russia’s position as the world’s second-largest arms exporter, the company’s executive director, Oleg Yevtushenko, announced.

He said that despite the difficult international environment and growing competition, Russia intends to maintain its position through 2030 and beyond, Caliber.Az reports via TASS.

Yevtushenko noted that the rivalry with France and South Korea makes the goal more challenging but achievable.

He also highlighted Rosoboronexport, a subsidiary of Rostec, which marks its 25th anniversary on November 4.

Since its founding, Russia’s arms export volume has increased fivefold, and the company’s performance remains strong.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia’s share of global major-arms exports fell to 7.8 % in the period 2020-24, down from about 21 % in 2015-19 — a drop of roughly 64 %. 

The decline is attributed to the war in Ukraine, heightened sanctions on Russia, and diversion of military production toward domestic use. 

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged in May 2025 that Russia must boost its arms exports and invest in advanced systems such as artificial intelligence-enabled weapons to stem the downturn. 

In key export markets, Russia has become more concentrated: two-thirds of its arms exports in 2020-24 went to India (38 %), China (17 %), and Kazakhstan (11 %).

By Jeyhun Aghazada