p The fact that the socialist, progressive forces want general and complete disarmament does not mean that they are capitulating to imperialism. Theirs is a drive for the simultaneous disarmament of socialist and capitalist countries. In the present situation, where the imperialists oppose disarmament, the socialist countries constantly strengthen their defence capacity and equip their armed forces with the latest types of weapons to enable them, in the event of attack, to repel imperialist aggressors.

p The armies of the capitalist countries guard the interests of the bourgeoisie and are an instrument of the aspirations of the reactionary imperialist forces, a means for throttling the revolutionary movement of the working people. By contrast, the armed forces of the socialist countries are a weapon for the defence of socialist gains, for the defence of peace.

p In order to counteract imperialist aggression more effectively, particularly the aggressive NATO bloc, the armies of the European socialist countries have united on the basis of the Warsaw Treaty. These armies are the mainstay of the developing countries in their struggle against the export of counter-revolution and colonialism, a mighty factor restraining the aggressive designs of the imperialists and a powerful bastion of all revolutionary and peace-loving forces.

p The Soviet Armed Forces have all they need to carry out their mission. They are equipped with strategic and tactical nuclear rockets that can destroy any land, air and naval 150 targets. Missiles with nuclear warheads form the basis of the Soviet Army’s and Navy’s fire power. The Air Force has the latest types of supersonic, powerfully-armed aircraft. The Navy has nuclear submarines armed with nuclear rockets and torpedoes that, fired from under water, can reach targets hundreds and thousands of kilometres away. Modern means of automation and mechanisation make it possible effectively to direct and co-ordinate the actions of land, air and naval forces.

p This powerful equipment is in the hands of highly trained troops, who are devoted to their people and Party and prepared to defend the great gains of socialism at any time.

It may confidently be said that the gains of socialism are in reliable hands and that if the imperialists start another world war it will end with the destruction of capitalism.