The UK has targeted Russia's chief drone manufacturer in its latest set of sanctions against 65 individuals and entities believed to be supporting the invasion of Ukraine.
Russian defence company Kronshtadt are the main producer of the Orion drone, along with other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that have been used in the war. Resistance from Ukraine has, in all likelihood, increased the Russians' demand for UAVs and the UK Ministry of Defence believes the sanctions will damage the company's supply line.
In tonight's Intelligence Update, posted on the Ministry of Defence's Twitter account @DefenceHQ, a statement read: "The UK has sanctioned a further 65 individuals and entities with supporting links to Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. Among those sanctioned include Kronshtadt, Russian defence company and main producer of Russia's Orion drone and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
"These systems have been widely deployed in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Robust Ukrainian air defences have almost certainly limited manned flights beyond their front lines, hence Russia has highly likely been forced to use more UAVs instead.
"This is probably leading to greater demand for, and attrition of, these assets. These sanctions will damage Russia's defence industrial complex and limit their ability to replace their UAV losses."
