Rostec Chief Declares Russias Battle for Technological Independence Amidst Western Competition

Russia is engaged in a «struggle for the future» against its Western opponents in the competition to advance new technologies and innovations, stated Sergei Chemezov, the leader of the state-owned defense conglomerate Rostec, on Tuesday.

Chemezov, who has a background as a KGB officer, is regarded as a close ally of President Vladimir Putin and is currently facing sanctions imposed by the EU, the U.S., and other nations.

Ukrainian intelligence indicates that Rostec oversees 243 businesses associated with defense production. Chemezov has previously expressed pride in Rostec’s facilities operating continuously to manufacture military hardware, including aircraft and tanks, in the context of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

In an article for the RBC news portal, Chemezov remarked that the present times could be seen as “the most challenging period in human history.” He cited global conflicts, alleged efforts to suppress Russian language and culture in Europe, and the ongoing four-year conflict in Ukraine.

“Although maintaining optimism in these circumstances is challenging, we must steer through this turbulence with assurance and a clear vision. We must ultimately prevail,” he wrote.

“This moment is a battle for the future,” he emphasized.

Chemezov asserted that to prevent external powers from dictating Russia’s future, the nation must focus on import substitution and achieve technological independence.

He contended that Russia should refrain from trying to «catch up and surpass» the technologies that Western nations have developed over decades and at massive financial investments.

Instead, he advocated for Russian investment in critical technologies and groundbreaking innovations such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and high-tech sectors, which, he argued, will lead to the creation of new industries while phasing out outdated ones.

He urged the government to adopt “long-term and low-cost financing initiatives to encourage the development of new technologies and products.”

According to Chemezov, these investments would challenge the perception held by some in the West that Russia is merely a “gas station country.”