Russia increases military production and troop presence near NATO

Russia is increasing its military capabilities through both aircraft production and troop concentrations near NATO borders. In the first eight months of 2026, Russian industry reportedly delivered 14 new combat aircraft to its forces, including six Su-35S, four Su-57, two Su-34, and two Su-30SM2. However, analysts suggest the actual production scale may be higher when accounting for export orders to countries such as Algeria, Belarus, and Myanmar.

Simultaneously, Russia is strengthening its military presence in the north near the Finnish border. The establishment of an army corps command in Petrozavodsk, Karelia, signals a potential concentration of up to 15,000 soldiers in the region. While this does not necessarily indicate an imminent attack, it represents a significant reinforcement of the northern flank. In response, Finland has sought support from Sweden to enhance patrolling and defensive capabilities along the 1,300-kilometer border.