Russia's largest tank and armored vehicle manufacturer Uralvagonzavod uses hundreds of units of foreign equipment in its production. Despite sanctions, the plant continues to expand its capacity. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Focus writes.
In the "Tools of War" section of the War&Sanctions portal, information has been published on over 260 units of foreign high-tech equipment - in particular, machines and machining centers with numerical control (CNC) that are used at Uralvagonzavod.
Most of this equipment was purchased even during the re-equipment of the Russian military-industrial complex, which began in 2007 and continued until the start of the war.
Although deliveries were carried out until 2022, the presence of such machines requires constant technical support, software updates and repairs.
According to the GRU, foreign manufacturers and their dealers have the ability to limit the supply of spare parts and technical equipment, which can significantly affect Russia's ability to maintain military production.
Despite the sanctions, “Uralvagonzavod“ continues to expand its capacity. In 2024, the plant launched a new production of tank engines, where modern CNC machines from European manufacturers are used.
Such equipment still enters Russia through third parties, although the process has become more complicated, longer and more expensive.
In order to limit production costs Russia's capabilities, according to experts, it is necessary to consolidate international efforts, monitor compliance with sanctions and block schemes for their circumvention.
In general, the section “Tools of War“ contains data on over 1,400 units of equipment used in 169 enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex. In many cases, the serial numbers of the machines are indicated, which allows manufacturers to track their path to Russia and block further supplies of spare parts and updates.