Exclusive: Majority of companies involved in Russian Molniya drone production unsanctioned, research shows
The research, conducted by the Centre for Defense Strategies, a Ukrainian security think tank, and shared with the Kyiv Independent, also shows that the majority of companies supplying components used in the production of Molniya drones are not yet subject to Western sanctions.
New research reveals that the vast majority of companies involved in producing Russia's Molniya series of drones are not subject to Western sanctions. The drones themselves, manufactured by Atlant Aero LLC, are also not currently under sanction by the United States or the United Kingdom.
The low-cost strike drone, which can cost around $1,600 and has a range of up to 50 kilometers, has become one of Russia's most widely used UAVs. Its relatively simple production and reported effectiveness have contributed to its widespread deployment.
According to the research conducted by the Centre for Defense Strategies, a Ukrainian security think tank, over 10 Russian companies providing critical components and services for Molniya production are also not under any Western sanctions. The company's main production facility in Taganrog, Rostov Oblast, has seen rapid expansion recently.
Additionally, 11 Chinese companies not subject to sanctions supply critical components for the Molniya supply chain. This includes Shenzhen Xingkai Technology Company, which provides mesh network equipment for Russian drones to fly deep into Ukrainian territory.
However, the research also highlights the need for a proper mechanism for enforcing sanctions, with adequate punishment for those attempting to evade them. Without this, sanctions are ineffective.
Written by urgent.news from Kyiv Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
