The Changing Geography of Russian/Soviet Naval Construction, 1890-1989

Abstract

An article tracing the evolving spatial pattern of military shipbuilding during the late Tsarist and Soviet periods focuses on developments occurring within five 20-year periods from 1890 to 1989. Changing patterns of output are assessed within the context of natural site conditions and relative location of the shipyard, geopolitical developments in nearby foreign states, technological advances, proximity to markets and sites where necessary inputs are produced, locational intertia, and conditions of wartime mobilization and recovery. The situation in the industry following the disintegration of the USSR is examined as well. 5 maps, 35 references.