Russia turns the war into a marathon of continuous arms production. Moscow produces more ammunition than all NATO countries combined, and does so many times faster, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated at the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London on 9 June.
He also called for a 400% increase in air and missile defence systems. The proposal represents one of the key priorities for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for 24-25 June in The Hague, where alliance members will discuss enhanced defence capabilities.
"In terms of ammunition, Russia produces in three months what the whole of NATO produces in a year," said Rutte.
He added that Russia’s military machine is not slowing down. On the contrary, it is strengthening its potential. Russia is actively replenishing its arsenal with help from China, Iran, and North Korea.
Rutte also noted that Russia is using Chinese technology to modernize its army.
"And its defence industrial base is expected to roll out 1,500 tanks, 3,000 armoured vehicles, and 200 Iskander missiles this year alone," the NATO chief highlighted.
He warned that Russia could be ready for aggression against NATO within the next five years. According to Rutte, "President Putin does not act like someone who is interested in peace."
NATO needs to increase air and missile defence by 400% – Rutte says ahead of June summit
