The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has stated in an online post that it believes that Russia no longer has the ability to manufacture complex modern weapons due to the sanctions imposed on the country. This includes modern ships for its navy, guided missile systems, and reconnaissance tech.
The statement from Ukrinform is based on intelligence from Russia that has said that it must stop construction by early April 2022. It said:
"The Russian shipwrecks had a critical situation regarding the implementation of existing contracts for the construction and maintenance of military ships. Reasons: heavy financial situation and lack of foreign components. In particular, the AT "Vostočnâ Verfʹ" (Vladivostok) has to fulfil state orders for a total amount of 35 billion roubles. Including the construction and supply of two marine tankers, two small rocket ships, two moving maritime docks, repair and service of ships and boats of various types."
Adding:
"However, from the letter of the military representative of the Ministry of the Russian Federation it becomes clear that as of the beginning of April 2022 due to a difficult financial situation all work has been suspended. Staff dismissal is being carried out, and the deadline for execution of contracts has been cancelled. The companies themselves are preparing for the beginning of the bankruptcy procedure."
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Western governments have imposed huge financial and political sanctions on Russia in order to push back against its war-machine. These include stopping the sale and transportation of complex industrial equipment and materials that can be used to construct modern weapons.
Some believe that Russia may attempt to ask China to provide advanced technological equipment. However, it is unclear how far China wishes to ally itself with Russia, particularly given the poor military situation of Russian forces and the increasingly pariah nature of the country.
[Based on reporting by: UKRINFORM]
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