Vladimir Putin said during a Web cast, "I am sure that we can reliably ensure our defense capability and security."
In view of the offensive capability of other countries, Russia must attend to its defense needs, and allocate sufficient funds to its military, he said.
"Our military spending is 25 times lower than in the United States. We will approach these problems very carefully, and find asymmetric forms of responses to any threats, employing a high level of defense technology, and a high level of skills among personnel. We have maintained this potential, and will use it, along with new possibilities that become available," he said.
The president said that due to the size of the country and its current economic potential, army conscription would have to continue for the next few years.
From January 1, 2007, compulsory military service will be reduced from two years to 18 months, and to 12 months from the beginning of 2008.
"Specialists in modern weaponry say that it is impossible to call up young people for a shorter term, since the complexity of military technology is increasing, and it is not possible to teach them anything in a shorter period," he said.
Putin also spoke out against the system of bribes for draft dodging in the country.
Bribery to avoid service "is linked to increased social inequality - it means that whoever has money can buy their way out, and whoever doesn't cannot. This cannot be considered fair."
"Bribery must be fought against, in all areas including the army," the president said.
