Introduction

V. Putin The President of the Russian Federation

Russia can't exist without the Navy if it pretends to the role it played till now and is going to play in the future. The coasts of Russia are washed by twelve seas and three oceans where huge supplies of natural resources are concentrated which the country needs today and will need still more. So if we want Russia to flourish and be powerful, selfsufficient and influential country in the world we must pay proper attention to the Navy.

The Navy has always been and remains the symbol of the powerful Russian state, the basis for its defense. Everywhere from the White and Black sea coasts up to the Pacific ocean, from the Baltic up to the Caspian sea the Andrew's flag covered with glory of great naval battles is fluttering proudly. Courage, tenacity and battle training of sailors subdued enemies and helped friends of Russia. In the history of the Navy there are not only feats of arms but also great discoveries of Russian navigators.

The present generation of naval officers deeply honour and multiply remarkable traditions of their ancestors. The traditions are passed from generation to generation and are the example for youth which is dreaming of dedicating the life to the heroic profession of the naval officer.

The president of the Russian Federation
V. PUTIN