An autocratic regime like Russia can readily prioritize the expansion of its defense industries over economic well-being to sustain their military actions in Ukraine, along with help from Iran and North Korea, said Lt Gen. Steven L. Basham, U.S. Air Forces in Europe deputy commander. Speaking at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies event “Transatlantic Security After 75 Years of NATO” on May 10, Basham noted that the West’s defense industrial base is also accelerating: “Make no mistake. It’s picking up speed. It will continue to accelerate past the capability of Russia. The time that is b…