The systematization of promising spatial development models for the Russian Federation

The research focuses on the theoretical and methodological bases for creating spatial development models in Russian regions. The purpose of the study is to systematize these promising models to provide more methodological opportunities for cluster initiatives in the economic space of the country. The analysis identifies the key trends in and the feasibility of the spatial development strategy of the Russian Federation. The poles of this process are defined; the main factors in the unequal settlement and distribution of productive forces in Russian regions are summarized. The authors elaborate on three basic models of spatial development (polycentric, uniform hierarchical, networking and cluster ones). They assume that industrial clusters can be developed in Russian regions as a transforming factor in the economic space. The paper examines the significant social and economic effects of the networking and cluster model of spatial development in Russia.