The rapid development of new technical systems is becoming one of the defining factors in modern warfare at sea. Traditional methods of naval combat remain relevant, but the advantage increasingly goes to the side that can develop and deploy new solutions faster across the air, surface and underwater domains.

Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, head of the Military Educational and Scientific Center of the Russian Navy’s Naval Academy, made the assessment during the People of the Sea forum.

In comments to TASS, Yevmenov said the Navy has no intention of abandoning established forms of maritime warfare. At the same time, he stressed that Russia must stay ahead of its opponent in emerging technologies, making the rapid development of technical systems in the air, on the water and below the surface especially important.

Maritime robotic platforms have a broader role than simply carrying out strikes. They can also conduct reconnaissance and perform mine-countermeasure missions. According to Yevmenov, this range of functions is turning such systems into a versatile deterrence tool and reshaping the basic approach to combat at sea.

Underwater technology is another major area of development. Russian companies have already mastered the production of relevant systems based on domestically produced components. Yevmenov noted that equipment designed for underwater operations is expensive to develop and operate, but Russian industry has succeeded in establishing production despite Western efforts to restrict Russia’s technological capabilities.

These underwater systems are designed for demanding missions in difficult conditions. Their use directly affects the duration, cost and safety of underwater operations, including both military and civilian tasks.

The experience of the special military operation is also influencing how future Russian Navy officers are trained. Lessons from combat operations are being incorporated into the Naval Academy’s educational process through its teaching staff.

A significant share of professors and instructors have practical combat experience. They have served both in senior staff positions and in roles involving the direct execution of missions, including combat training.

Yevmenov said this experience allows the academy to prepare officers with modern challenges and real combat practice in mind.