Russia Lets Private Firms Buy Heavy Weapons to Defend Sites From Drone Attacks - RBC
The Moscow Times • • world
Key Points:
- Russian authorities have approved a new mechanism allowing private companies to purchase heavy weaponry, including anti-aircraft artillery, radar, and electronic warfare systems, to defend industrial facilities against drone attacks.
- This decision aims to address increasing Ukrainian drone strikes on key infrastructure such as oil refineries and industrial sites across European Russia.
- The move was discussed during a meeting between President Putin and Alexander Shokhin, who highlighted the need for better weapon supply mechanisms and permanent reservist assignments to protect industrial sites.
- New mobile fire groups comprising reservists, volunteers, and private company employees are being formed in many regions, with purchased weaponry transferred directly to military units responsible for infrastructure protection.
- Additionally, a Pantsir-SMD-E air defense system designed to counter drones was installed atop Moscow’s Nordstar Tower, which houses major tenants including state oil company Rosneft.