MOSCOW, August 01. /ITAR-TASS/. Permanent presence of Russia’s Airborne Troops (VDV) in the Arctic is not planned so far, VDV Commander Colonel General Vladimir Shamanov told reports on Friday.

“Our Arctic presence will be aimed at reliable protection of our national interests. We will fulfil all the tasks set before us,” he said.

According to him, “at this stage, we will act relying on the existing national defense network.” “We don’t plan permanent deployment there yet,” Shamanov said, adding that the air defense and naval systems were being restored in the Arctic, “and we will act in our traditional way, including air dropping.”

Shamanov said the Airborne Troops in co-operation with the industry already started the development of equipment and outfits for effective operations in northern latitudes.

“We shall advance in this direction,” said the commander, adding that due to strong winds the paratroopers during March exercises on the Kotelny Island failed to use an airborne vehicle, designed by a Moscow institute.

He said the paratroopers were 80% satisfied with the equipment and outfits for Arctic operations. “We are generally - 80% satisfied with the equipment for actions at large distances from base camps, provided by the army logistics services, and the remaining 20% - footwear, heating appliances, food warming devices need improvement,” he said.

According to him, German tents have “failed the frost test, breaking at the seams, and our Russian-made tents, although not as good-looking, endured”.