Machine Building: Perestroyka's Sputtering Engine

Performance of the machine-building sector in the Soviet economy is examined in light of its critical importance in perestroyka. A description of the situation leading to the present emphasis of the sector in investment policy is followed by analysis of administrative measures and systemic reforms designed to increase its productivity. Relying in part on CIA estimates, the authors conclude with an assessment of the machine-building program's effectiveness and identify problems resulting from the instability caused by such changes in traditional modes of operation as unprecedented performance targets and demands for product quality. Journal of Economic Literature, Classification Numbers: 052, 124, 211.