What was the primary characteristic of industry in the USSR?

The primary characteristic of industry in the USSR was that it was state-run. The Soviet government exercised extensive control over all aspects of economic production. This included the ownership of factories, farms, and other means of production, which were collectively managed by the state rather than being privately owned. This system was a fundamental aspect of Marxist-Leninist ideology, aiming to eliminate capitalist structures and ensure that the means of production served the needs of the populace rather than individual profit.

State-run industry was essential for implementing and maintaining central planning, where the government determined what would be produced, how much, and at what price, with the overarching goal of achieving rapid industrialization and economic growth. This focus on state control over industry was reflected in various policies and practices throughout the Soviet Union's history.