It's never been publicly acknowledged, but a lot of Soviet era weaponry was based, if not copied, from plans stolen from NATO or the U.S.

This is because socialism is inept at creating anything new. It is a system that discourages innovation. Thinking outside the box is almost non-existent due to a deadening conformity that permeates research and development.

That would explain the desperation of Hugo Chavez in trying to steal technological secrets from foreign automakers, as this BBC article explains:

Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez has told car companies they must share their technology with local businesses or leave the country.

Mr Chavez gave the ultimatum to Toyota, Ford, General Motors and Fiat during a public address.

If the demand isn't met, he said: "I invite you to pack up your belongings and leave. I'll bring in the Russians, the Belorusians, the Chinese."

Venezuela has nationalised most of the oil, metal and coffee industries.

Mr Chavez attacked Toyota in particular, saying it was not producing enough four-wheel drive vehicles, which are used for public transport, and ordered an investigation.

So far, the carmakers have not responded.