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Science should play key role in developing up-to-date weaponry – VP

“In this aspect it is necessary to rivet attention to chief designers,” the vice-prime minister said

MOSCOW, February 18 (Itar-Tass) — Vice-Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin said science should play an important role in developing up-to-date weaponry.

Speaking at a session of the Council of Russian Engineering Workers Union on Saturday, Rogozin said, “New weaponry should be developed and produced consistently – from fundamental scientific research to applied research. Afterwards development and engineering should be started.”

“In this aspect it is necessary to rivet attention to chief designers,” the vice-prime minister said. “Today our chief and general designers are hired workers, which are involved by scientific-productions associations and their directors to carry out any tasks. But we understand what intelligence is. And we understand that our country is always proud of the high level of basic science and research work,” Rogozin explained.

“The reputation and prestige of science should be enhanced. It is necessary for the Engineering Workers Union to become a driving force, which will raise the level and the status of intellectuals, who are now working hard to develop the industry, primarily defence industry,” Rogozin stressed.

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