Putin calls for fast naval deliveries

Moscow, May 22 (IANS/RIA Novosti) President Vladimir Putin has criticised the state-owned United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) for delay in delivery of warships to the Russian Navy and demanded the shipbuilders to improve efficiency.

Established in 2007, the USC is the country's largest shipbuilding and ship repair company.

"Problems still remain with deadlines and the quality of implementation of orders, including defence projects.

"In particular, the construction of a number of nuclear submarines and surface ships and their delivery to the navy has been unjustifiably delayed," Putin said at a meeting with USC officials.

The president called on Russian shipbuilders to accelerate the delivery of ships to the customer without impairing their quality.

"The corporation must work smoothly, producing warships. This is one of the key tasks facing the USC's new management," Putin said.

The president ordered USC's management to submit a report by Oct 15 on measures to improve the situation in the industry.

The USC comprises nine design bureaus and 39 shipyards. It currently accounts for 70 per cent of the domestic shipbuilding industry, according to its website.

The corporation is wholly owned by the state.

The Russian Navy is expected to receive 24 submarines and 54 warships of various classes by 2020, according to the defence ministry.

--IANS//RIA Novosti

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