Cluster approach in the Russian defense industry development as a tool of national branding (the example of Biysk defense cluster)

The article is devoted to research of innovation territorial clusters as an actual instrument of Russian economics strengthening and territorial and national branding policy forming. The clusters are viewed as a mechanism for raising of competitiveness of national economics and as an instrument of the national brand forming. The article demonstrates the experience of realization of the innovation territorial defense cluster in the science city Biysk. Application of an optimal set of innovation instruments (including cluster approach) and of a competitive knowledge-intensive production provide a positive territorial brand. Moreover, the effective activity of cluster participants promote a successful positioning for the region and even for the state in general. Therefore, cluster development has both economic and socio-political effects. Consequently, the national brand based on defense competences could support strong reputation and political influence of Russia in the world arena.