By appointing an economist to the top Army position, Putin is hoping that innovation in the military could save Russia from economic collapse. In mid 1980's war budget shot up to 7.4% of GDP before Russian economy collapsed. Current Russian number is 6.7% if you want to believe it. Appointing an economist to the top military position will solve the ballooning cost issue of the Army is not certain but what is certain is Russia is set to produce another multi-billionaire in top Army ranks.
