If I was a corrupt Russian general, embezzling funds meant for nuclear deterrence upkeep would be a pretty safe bet since they are the weapons least likely to ever be used and thus least likely to be found out.
Add to that the old KBG mentality of separate realities. Official reports list X for propaganda purposes and for spies to get misinformation, and when the real numbers are needed it goes through a different process so they can make actual military plans.
It’s my opinion that this historical Soviet system is why Russia’s planned invasion of Ukraine was so far from reality. Topped with the personal corruption from oligarchs and generals as the cherry on top.
If I was a corrupt Russian general, embezzling funds meant for nuclear deterrence upkeep would be a pretty safe bet since they are the weapons least likely to ever be used and thus least likely to be found out.
Add to that the old KBG mentality of separate realities. Official reports list X for propaganda purposes and for spies to get misinformation, and when the real numbers are needed it goes through a different process so they can make actual military plans.
It’s my opinion that this historical Soviet system is why Russia’s planned invasion of Ukraine was so far from reality. Topped with the personal corruption from oligarchs and generals as the cherry on top.