Russian Army off on a New Course?

[Feanor]

With the change of Minister of Defense, Ivanov replaced by Serdyukov, now we have a change in Chief of Staff, from Baluyevsky, to Makarov. Is this a recognition of the fact that the old leadership is incapable of enacting the transition to a 21st century army?
http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=55442&cid=25

Though this was followed by a reward for Baluyevsky, in the form of a medal, this definetly seems to be a change of course.

 

[Chrom]

With the change of Minister of Defense, Ivanov replaced by Serdyukov, now we have a change in Chief of Staff, from Baluyevsky, to Makarov. Is this a recognition of the fact that the old leadership is incapable of enacting the transition to a 21st century army?
http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=55442&cid=25

Though this was followed by a reward for Baluyevsky, in the form of a medal, this definetly seems to be a change of course.

The russian military law generally force everyone after 60 age to retire. In exceptional cases president can let someone in service for 1 year. Baluyevsky was 63 (or 64) so his service was prolonged 3 times already. This is pushing limits as is.

The retirement was expected and long overdue.