LONDON, February 14. /TASS/. Experts from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) say some Russian weapons outrange their US-made NATO analogues.

"IISS data shows that some Russian equipment outranges the missile and rocket artillery systems of NATO’s most capable power, the US," said the IISS report titled: "The Military Balance 2016" made public on Tuesday.

Besides, the document marks Russia’s "threat" to security of countries in Europe’s north and east.

"For states in Europe’s east and north, however, Russia remains the principal security concern," the report stated.

"Russia’s armed forces continue to benefit from renewed investment, with the continuing delivery of improved weapons as Moscow swaps old for new equipment," the report noted. 

Russia's defense industry on the rise 

Russia’s defense industry has once again become a relatively modern and successful branch of the economy: 

"After almost two decades of meagre funding, Russia’s defense industry has once again become a relatively modern and successful branch of the economy."

"With this improved funding, pay in the defense industry has significantly increased in recent years. This has made the recruitment of new personnel possible, leading to a reduction in the average age. Whereas only 20% of employees were under the age of 35 in 2009, by late 2015 the proportion was 30%," the report said.

The IISS noted that "during 2014 and 2015, military production is reported to have grown at an average rate of almost 20%, although the shipbuilding sector still lags behind. According to experts, "Moscow is hoping for increased export sales following the apparently successful use of Russian weaponry in Syria." "There is now a willingness to export the latest equipment, such as the S-400 air-defense system, and the SU-35 combat aircraft, both of which are due to be sold to China," the report stated.