Russia can't match NATO's conventional strength, so it's betting on submarines and nuclear asymmetry, commander says
Business Insider
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Russia’s conventional military strength lags significantly behind NATO, prompting Moscow to rely on unconventional strategies such as submarines and experimental nuclear weapons to maintain a strategic edge. A top Norwegian military official revealed that Russia’s focus on asymmetric capabilities, including its vast submarine fleet and advanced nuclear systems, is a direct response to NATO's superior conventional forces. With over 60 submarines, some capable of launching ballistic missiles, Russia aims to leverage underwater capabilities as a key advantage against the West.
Russia’s heavy losses in Ukraine, including troops, equipment, and aircraft, highlight its inability to sustain conventional warfare on par with NATO. British intelligence reports indicate over 1.2 million Russian casualties since the war began, while recruitment challenges suggest Moscow struggles to replenish its forces. This has pushed Russia to prioritize asymmetric tools like nuclear-powered missiles and torpedoes, tested in the Arctic, which are designed to bypass defenses and strike globally.
NATO remains vigilant, with 14 member states operating submarines and a collective focus on enhancing anti-submarine warfare capabilities. While NATO possesses significant underwater assets, officials stress the importance of understanding and countering Russia’s advanced nuclear and submarine technologies. This dynamic underscores the ongoing tension between conventional military power and asymmetric strategies in modern conflict.
Russia’s investments in experimental weapons, such as the Burevestnik cruise missile and Poseidon torpedo, reflect its focus on maintaining a nuclear deterrent despite conventional weaknesses. These systems are part of a broader effort to showcase advanced capabilities, even if their实战 effectiveness remains uncertain. Meanwhile, NATO continues to adapt by strengthening its undersea domain control and monitoring Russian submarine activity in strategic regions like the Arctic.
For businesses and investors, this shift underscores the growing importance of defense innovation and geopolitical stability. As Russia relies increasingly on unconventional tactics, the global defense industry is likely to see increased focus on submarine technology, nuclear deterrence systems, and cybersecurity measures to counter potential asymmetrical threats. The strategic balance between conventional military power and asymmetric capabilities will shape future conflicts and influence defense spending priorities
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/24/2026