Russia to Replace Free Cigarettes with Candy in Military Rations

Russia's Defense Ministry plans to drop free cigarettes from its food rations for servicemen, replacing them with candy, according to a top general. While the military will not ban smoking, soldiers will now have to purchase their own cigarettes. The move comes as part of a broader effort to improve the quality of military uniforms, with new designs featuring breathable socks and high-quality leather shoes.

Key Takeaways:

• The Russian Defense Ministry will no longer provide free cigarettes to servicemen, instead offering candy as a replacement.
• Soldiers will still be able to purchase cigarettes from stores, but will no longer receive them as part of their rations.
• The military is introducing new, higher-quality uniforms, including breathable socks and high-quality leather shoes.
• The new uniforms were scheduled to be issued in 2009, but have been delayed due to budget cuts.
• The phased introduction of the new uniforms will take place over the next two to three years.
• Military officers who work mainly indoors or in hot climates will be issued new uniforms first.
• After receiving a complete uniform kit, officers will have to purchase new components themselves from special military stores.
• Lt. Gen. Dmitry Bulgakov announced the changes, citing changes to Defense Ministry plans and budget constraints.

Statistics:

• 2-3 years: planned duration of the phased introduction of new uniforms (Bulgakov)
• 2007: year the decision to introduce updated, higher-quality uniforms was made
• 2009: year the new uniforms were scheduled to be issued
• Few units have received new uniforms due to budget cuts
• New uniforms will feature breathable socks and high-quality leather shoes
• Soldiers will have to purchase new uniform components from special military stores after receiving a complete kit

Sources:

• Dow Jones Commodities News Select via Comtex
• Dow Jones Newswires release dated 07-30-09 0935ET