A strategic plan for modernizing Russia’s shipbuilding sector calls for investments totaling 1.959 trillion rubles by 2035. This figure appears in a briefing summarized by RBC, which cites a presentation prepared by the consulting firm SBS Consulting. The document was developed for the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) and the Ministry of Industry and Trade at the close of 2023, highlighting the scale of funding considered necessary to advance the industry.
The core argument centers on building a high-capacity cargo fleet, including sea tankers and dry cargo vessels, to support the export of Russia’s raw materials. The publication notes that the calculations were based on a baseline scenario for industry development in which domestic ships would carry approximately half of the country’s export cargo. This balance is framed as a strategic target to reduce dependency on foreign-built tonnage and to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
SBS Consulting emphasizes that Russia currently faces a shortage of production capacity for competitive civil shipbuilding products. The analysis identifies the most acute gap as the ability to construct a large-tonnage fleet, which is pivotal for sustaining long-range, high-volume export operations and ensuring consistent maintenance of trade routes.
In parallel, public statements from Russian leadership have underscored a revival in the shipbuilding sector and its potential to move toward rhythmic mass production of naval vessels. This broader policy context reinforces the push for expanding domestic shipyards and streamlining the supply chain for large-scale naval and civil shipbuilding projects.
Recent industry discussions also reflect ongoing modernization efforts, including the renewal and upgrading of fleet components and facilities. Such modernization aims to improve efficiency, reduce construction times, and bolster the competitiveness of Russian-built ships in both civil and military segments. The focus remains on aligning production capacity with projected export demand and strategic defense considerations, while also maintaining a robust civil shipbuilding program.
Overall, the dialogue around funding and capacity expansion points to a coordinated national effort to increase domestic production, support long-term export viability, and maintain strategic sovereignty in critical maritime industries. This approach mirrors broader industrial policy trends that seek to balance growth with resilience, ensuring shipyards can deliver a steady stream of high-value vessels to meet evolving market needs. [Source: SBS Consulting, 2023]