A closer look at Moscow’s military procurement decisions highlights why Europe must prepare for a campaign of sustained Russian pressure well beyond Ukraine. Within Russia’s naval and missile sectors, which matter most for the European theater, three alarming trends are visible: rapid growth in production facilities, clear prioritization of strategic platforms, and investments aimed at long-term operational endurance rather than a short wartime surge.
Even as their invasion of Ukraine continues, Russian forces are increasingly testing European defenses with drones, manned aircraft, and warships. These are not merely mistakes or simple reconnaissance operations—they’re an attempt to normalize intrusion . And behind each probe sits a retooled and increasingly efficient military-industrial machine: shipyards churning out ice-capable submarines, missile factories running three shifts to stockpile long-range strike weapons, and explosives plants expanding to strategic scale.
Even as their invasion of Ukraine continues, Russian forces are increasingly testing European defenses with drones, manned aircraft, and warships. These are not merely mistakes or simple reconnaissance operations—they’re an attempt to normalize intrusion. And behind each probe sits a retooled and increasingly efficient military-industrial machine: shipyards churning out ice-capable submarines, missile factories running three shifts to stockpile long-range strike weapons, and explosives plants expanding to strategic scale.
A closer look at Moscow’s milita
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