TAKE 2 OF 2 -- AIR DEFENSE FORCES CHIEF INTERVIEWED

This document is a transcript of an interview with the Commander in Chief of the Soviet Air Defense Forces (PVO), identified as Tretyak, conducted by Vovnenko. The discussion centers on the strategic posture of the Soviet military following the Persian Gulf War. Tretyak emphasizes the need for constant combat readiness and the importance of monitoring air space, particularly in light of the performance of various aircraft and missile systems observed during recent conflicts. The conversation touches upon the effectiveness of the American Patriot missile system, which Tretyak acknowledges as having evolved from an anti-aircraft weapon into an anti-missile system. A significant portion of the interview addresses the economic challenges facing the Soviet military, specifically the impact of budget cuts on the quality of equipment and the pace of modernization. Tretyak expresses concern that these cuts will slow the development of new, advanced technologies. During the interview, the subject of UFOs is raised. Tretyak explicitly states that he does not believe in UFOs, suggesting instead that modern science and technology are capable of creating such spacecraft, and that such developments must be monitored closely. The interview concludes with a discussion on the necessity of maintaining technical standards for equipment and personnel despite the difficult economic climate in the country.