Commenting on the efficiency of expensive exercises, the head of state said, "All problems of the armed forces should be solved harmoniously and not at each other's expense."
According to Vladimir Putin, "exercises are needed to let servicemen do their duty at the top level."
Up to 70% of the Defense Ministry's budget was recently spent to keep the army. "It means that this army has no future as no weapons were purchased," Mr. Putin noted.
In his words, much attention will be paid to social problems of the armed forces.
The navy, including its nuclear-powered units, will be developing, as well, the Russian leader reassured. The Defense Ministry, General Staff, and political leadership understands how to develop the Pacific Fleet and make it a key aspect of Russia's security and these plans will be implemented.
Vladimir Putin positively assessed the results of the Mobility-2004 exercises in the Far East.
"The exercises were well prepared and held with good results," he said.
However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the condition of housing, social and cultural objects on the base of Pacific submarines in the settlement of Rybachy.
"The situation is intolerable," Vladimir Putin announced at the session with Pacific fleet commanders and Defense Ministry heads.
"It is necessary to focus on the solution of social problems," the head of state stressed.
According to him, this problem was within eyeshot of the government, however, seamen see some improvements. However, Vladimir Putin saw no improvements in Rybachy and disliked the condition of buildings constructed 30-40 years ago.
Servicemen will preserve their main privileges, concerning vacations, treatment and pensions, he noted.
The Russian President pointed out Kamchatka's importance for Russia's security.
"Kamchatka is a unique nature reserve, a major fishing region and Russia's defensive outpost," the Russian leader told a press conference.
In his words, he hopes for the development of tourism and fishery in this region. For instance, it is necessary to create tourist centers here, Mr. Putin said.
On Wednesday Vladimir Putin visited the Oceanology institute in Vladivostok and discussed the construction of a seaquarium with its heads. It will boost the research a marine biology and become a tourist attraction, the President added.
