The Legacy of Soviet Weaponry: Why Countries Relying on Outdated Arms are at a Disadvantage

OPINION. Many militaries across the world are still purchasing and operating Soviet-era weaponry. While many of these systems have been updated, they still pose many disadvantages.

The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War and ushered in a new era of global politics. But in many parts of the world, the legacy of Soviet weaponry lives on. Despite the fact that the Soviet Union no longer exists and the vast majority of its former republics have transitioned to Western-style capitalist economies, many countries continue to rely on Soviet-era weapons in their militaries.

Source: Al Jazeera

There are a number of reasons why countries continue to rely on Soviet weaponry. For some, it's a matter of cost: Soviet arms were often sold at a much lower price than Western weapons, making them a more affordable option for countries with limited defense budgets. Others may prefer Soviet weapons because they are compatible with existing military infrastructure or are easier to maintain and repair.