The Soviet Union in the Middle East 1973–8

Abstract

In the period between 1955 and the end of 1973 the Soviet Union invested over $3 milliard in military aid to Egypt1 and (and has invested another $2 milliard from the end of 1973 up to the present day). Most of this aid was given as long-term loans at low interest-rates or else in exchange for Egyptian cotton. However, the real return reaped by the Soviet Union was its growing presence in Egyptian harbours and airfields and its considerable influence over the configuration of Egypt’s armed forces. The part played by the Soviet advisers in moulding the new Egyptian army and training the new Egyptian soldier after the shattering defeat of 1967 did not produce political profits later on after the October War. At the time, however, Nasser was anxious to have Soviet advisers, and the Kremlin responded as many other states have done in similar circumstances. The Arab Legion of Jordan became a disciplined crack force with the help of British advisers; today’s Indian army has been trained by British advisers for years; the Saudi Arabian army has been created with massive American help. The USSR was doing the same for the Egyptian army, and is still advising the Syrian and Iraqi armies and, needless to say, the army of Ethiopia as well.