The article focuses on the transformation of the Russian higher education system to meet the latest market economy demands and to develop the efficient interaction with the business community. Universities are integrating into existing production chains and new markets. Leading Russian universities are being transformed into innovation hubs, playing the role of integrators in scientific and technical processes, developing efficient mechanisms of technology transfer, they are able to form new educational programs that meet the latest demands of the knowledge society. Nationally oriented system of higher education based on traditional values and meeting institutional requirements of the country’s ecosystem, should become an important factor of Russia’s stable development.

The article dwells on the problem of Russian education in the context of ever-growing threat from Western countries. World educational and scientific spheres with their openness and mutual penetration have long ago become one of the arenas for confrontation between our country and Western civilization. Nationally oriented education system based on traditional values priority, should become an important factor for Russia’s stable development. In the current tense situation the education system, free of Western pressure and imposition of foreign models, together with scientific and engineering potential are an important tool for ensuring national security of Russia. Educational policy should be based on plans of the state strategic development with regard to Russia’s geopolitical situation.