Russia Boasts of 100 Percent Nuclear Modernization by 2020

Russia is expected to renew its strategic nuclear forces (SNF) by 100 percent, more than the previously reported 70 percent renewal, according to a report by Russian state-owned RIA NOVISTI that cited Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin. “The formation of the technical basis for strategic nuclear forces is going at a faster rate, and, in fact, we will renew not 70 percent of the SNF, but 100 percent,” the article quotes Rogozin as saying. “Should we amaze our colleagues and it is necessary to brandish all types of weaponry to surprise them? Something must be preserved as a quiet secret for yourself to surprise at the most critical moment.” In 2008, Russia began a rearmament program which will continue until 2020, the article stated.