| Publication |
2011.
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| Summary/Abstract |
This article will examine General Shamanov's background, the probable rationale for his assignment as airborne commander, his role in the ongoing reform of the Russian military, and the possible future implications for the Russian military and state. This biographical sketch suggests that Shamanov represents a portion of the modern Russian officer corps. These officers (from a variety of security agencies) have merged state, business, and private interests, resulting in a distortion of traditional civil-military relations. As a high-level advisor, and now as Airborne Commander, General Shamanov continues to influence the course of military reform. There is speculation that General Shamanov could become the next Minister of Defense. While the Russian military has a long tradition of remaining outside politics, if the domestic situation in Russia were to become dire, General Shamanov could help choose, or even become, the next Russian commander-in-chief.
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