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During a gala meeting with military officers, Mr Putin said he was sure that the Russian Armed Forces would reach a new level of development in 2003 with increased allocations. The country would meet all the targets of the comprehensive strengthening of its armed forces, and afford extra funding for fundamental research, and the repair and purchase of military equipment, he said.

Referring to military development priorities, Mr Putin said it was necessary to streamline the structure of the armed forces and increase their efficiency. He insistently called for Russia to establish level readiness units in all services and branches, which was an essential and urgent goal.