Assessing the impact of "reasonable sufficiency" on the structure and missions of the former Soviet Navy

Abstract

Using content analysis of original writings and speeches by former Soviet military and political leaders, this paper ascertains the impact of the concept of reasonable sufficiency for defense on the former Soviet military in general, and its Navy in particular. the research begins with the era of reform initiated in 1985 and ends coincidental to the dissolution of the former USSR in December 1991. This review demonstrates that reasonable sufficiency, as a component of the new defensive-defense oriented Soviet military doctrine, significantly affected the organization structure and assigned roles of the former Soviet maritime forces. The final chapter summarizes the historical aspects of reasonable sufficiency and projects the concept's future impact on the Russian Navy as the logical successor to the Soviet Navy. As the Russian Navy evolves from the roots of its predecessor, it will continue to play a viable role in the national defense of Russia. The influences of reasonable sufficiency on the Russian Navy will continue to be significant into the next century.