Originally Posted by
PAXboy
The fingerprints of the suppliers of military hardware are all over the costs of the last 50 years. Always the opportunity to buy bigger and newer and all things to all senior ranks. Further, we have followed the USA on going for the new toys which are so often made in America. Surprise all round.
Meanwhile, the politicians are still fighting the Cold War and making unwise threats to Vlad. They do not seem to realise that Vlad is going to win this - one way or the other.
There are no layers of suppliers adding cost in the Soviet system, everything is “paid for” by the Government, wages/materials, everything.
Believe it or not, they really have no idea what the “cost” of any equipment, or piece thereof is.
If one goes to purchase “x” part, they will most often ask what the price is for what they feel is the equivalent US part, and that’s their price for that transaction. Of course there is always the “secondary market” but that’s another ball game all by itself. They are slowly beginning to price end product with a view to compete in the commercial sector, but are having a hard time finding a wide acceptance of their products, hence the partnering deals with recognized western companies, that really don’t seem to go anywhere.
And if one compares systems, manufacture/overhaul/maintenance, we are worlds apart in terms of facilities/equipment, they have bare bones, we have Cadillac.
Their outlook, since the end of WW II, hasn't changed, quantity over quality, you may have 12 of, but if we have 20, then….
That approach can be challenged, but the mindset remains.
Different strokes, different folks.
Doing business over there is a whole other animal.