Russia’s Weapons Production Surges, Defying Sanctions and Export Controls

Despite facing Western sanctions and export controls, Russia has remarkably surpassed pre-war levels in Russia’s weapons production.

U.S. officials acknowledge that Russia’s weapons production initially plummeted due to sanctions during the early stages of the conflict, but by the close of 2022, military-industrial output rebounded significantly

Reports indicate that Moscow has established networks to funnel crucial weapons components through intermediary countries like Armenia and Turkey, evading American export controls. This strategic move has enabled Russia to swiftly re-engage in critical parts trading less than a year after the invasion commenced.

A high-ranking defense official from a Western nation disclosed that Russia‘s weapons production of tanks has surged from 100 to 200 units compared to pre-war figures. Furthermore, it is believed that Russia is now churning out an astonishing 2 million artillery shells annually, double the estimates of Western intelligence agencies.

This surge in output has led to Russia’s weapons production outstripping both the United States and Europe in ammunition production

Kusti Salma, a senior figure at the Estonian Ministry of Defense, highlights that Russia’s weapons production rate is seven times greater than that of the Western nations.

Remarkably, Russia’s weapons production costs are significantly lower than in the West, partly due to sacrifices in safety and quality. For instance, a 155mm artillery shell costs Western nations between $5000-6000, while an equivalent 152mm shell is produced in Russia for approximately $600.

Experts note that Russia’s ability to bypass sanctions is facilitated by the portability of the necessary chips for missile production. Dmitry Alperovich, a security expert and founder of the Silverado Policy Accelerator think tank, points out that these crucial components can be transported in a few backpacks.

U.S. officials acknowledge the challenge of impeding Russia’s illicit procurement of missile-making components, emphasizing that while efforts can slow down the process, entirely halting Moscow’s circumvention of restrictions is unlikely.

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