Continuing with the nautical theme… Russia has a new naval doctrine that sets out its desire to become a “great maritime power” and “defend its national interests in the world’s oceans”. Russia’s navy is set to foster stronger ties with counterparts in India, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. And it will boost its presence in the Arctic and Black Seas. The doctrine also highlights “the strategic policy of the USA to dominate the world’s oceans” as Russia’s main threat and pledged to use military force in the oceans if other avenues are exhausted. In a speech on Russia’s Navy Day yesterday, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated he’s prepared to make good on that pledge with powerful Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles being delivered to Russia’s naval ships within months.