Russian military cuts back on fuel prices

The Russian Armed Forces have to reduce the consumption of fuel and lubricants due to rising prices, Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Dmitry Bulgakov said on Monday.Diesel fuel prices increased 50% and gasoline prices were up 30% since the fall of 2010, he said. The military has procured enough fuel and lubricants for 2011 but because spending was higher than planned, the ministry will impose consumption quotas and conserve fuel and lubricants "wherever possible," the general said. In particular, the number of standalone heating plants will be reduced, including by outsourcing them to commercial defense service contractors. The savings will be used to compensate for rising fuel and lubricant prices.