Russian MoD Replaces Windows With Locally Developed Linux OS

The Russian Ministry of Defense is now using domestically-developed operating system, called Astra Linux built by Moscow firm "RusBITEkh".

Currently, licensed Microsoft products are installed on Russian military computers. The ministry will be transferring all office computers to the new OS, which will also be loaded on all special service smartphones and tablets, fort-russ reports.

"A key feature of Astra Linux Special Edition is a unique system for protecting information," said Dmitry Donskoy, deputy director of the company. 

The OS suite also includes an office application LibreOffice. For the secure exchange of information, the electronic document management system "Pergament" is used. The OS is also compatible with the software products, such as the "1C" accounting system, Kaspersky Antivirus and Dr.Web, which are widely used in Russia.

"In connection with sanctions in all federal bodies, it was decided to switch to domestic software at an accelerated pace. Without exaggeration, this is a matter of national security," said Alexei Smirnov, the developer.