MOSCOW: Russia announced on Monday a significant surge in ammunition and military equipment production as its offensive in Ukraine enters its eighteenth month. The Russian Deputy Prime Minister, Denis Manturov, revealed that many types of weapons and military equipment are being produced in quantities far above last year’s figures.
Since launching full-scale offensives in Ukraine last February, Russia had initially expected to swiftly overpower Ukraine’s military. However, the conflict has become a prolonged and grueling one, coupled with international sanctions that have hindered Russia’s ability to replenish its military inventories.
Manturov stated, “In terms of munitions, we are reaching a level where deliveries in a month exceed last year’s total orders.” The limited stockpiles of ammunition have posed a challenge for both sides in the Ukraine conflict, particularly in the context of long-range artillery duels dominating the frontline.
Russia’s Ammo Stock Amid Western Sanctions
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu had previously expressed his forces’ dependence on timely replenishment of ammunition and hardware inventories. He urged an increase in production to meet the demands of the ongoing conflict.
Western sanctions have sought to impede Russia’s ability to restock by banning exports of machine parts and electronic components that could be used in military operations. Despite these measures, analysts suggest that Russia has found ways to circumvent some sanctions by importing through third countries.
Last week, a Ukrainian presidential aide disclosed that Ukraine was using between 5,000 to 10,000 units of one type of shell daily in the conflict.
In response to the situation in Ukraine, the European Union recently finalized plans to boost ammunition production within the bloc. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support Ukraine by providing military assistance and restocking depleted arsenals.
