As NATO countries, including Canada, increase their military build-up, they are facing challenges reminiscent of the Cold War era, particularly regarding the resilience of Russian industry in producing weapons that, although often technologically inferior to Western counterparts, are deemed sufficient for warfare.
Sanctions have hindered Moscow’s ability to mass-produce drones, missiles, aircraft, and other military equipment, leading to a decline in quality over time.
According to a recent report by Mathieu Boulègue from the U.K.-based Chatham House think-tank, Russia is struggling to develop new and advanced systems and is predominantly relying on outdated Soviet-era technologies and external suppliers to replace essential Western components.
The report sheds light on a key discussion within the Western defense community. NATO member states have committed to significantly increasing military expenditures, with a target of allocating five percent of their GDP for defense by 2035, with a focus on cutting-edge innovation, particularly for Canada.
Canada is striving to gain an edge in the drone arms race by issuing industry challenges and exploring technologies like marine attack drones and anti-drone lasers.
However, experts are questioning whether NATO nations should invest heavily in sophisticated, costly weapons systems like the F-35 stealth jet and advanced destroyers, or if there should be a greater focus on more affordable, disposable technology.
While acknowledging that both approaches have merit, critics of high-tech investments point out instances where inexpensive drones have disabled expensive Russian tanks, highlighting the importance of quantity in addition to quality in NATO’s rearmament strategy.
A Canadian arms control expert stressed the significance of prioritizing quantity over quality as NATO reevaluates its military modernization plans.
Andrew Rasiulis, a former official at the Department of National Defence, emphasized the importance of not solely focusing on the sophistication of weaponry, highlighting the need for a balanced military approach that aligns with strategic defense requirements rather than arbitrary spending targets.
Rasiulis noted that the ability to deter and defend against potential threats should be the primary consideration for NATO countries like Canada, emphasizing the concept that “quantity has a quality all of its own.”
The Chatham House report draws parallels with NATO’s history during the Cold War, where the alliance compensated for Soviet numerical superiority with superior technology and nuclear deterrence.
Despite Russia’s increased military spending, the report indicates a regression in its military industry, leading to a decline in quality and innovation