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Russia looks to Central Asia to keep defense production beyond drones
The shift would move parts of arms manufacturing and maintenance to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan as Ukraine’s drone campaign raises the risk to Russian infrastructure.
Russian infrastructure used for the war effort has been hit by Ukrainian drone strikes, prompting Moscow to deepen defense cooperation with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, according to a report published by RFE/RL.
OilPrice reports that the Kremlin’s focus is on outsourcing arms production, including setting up assembly lines and maintenance facilities in Central Asia, potentially reducing exposure to drone attacks.
The report notes that any move to shift arms output from Russia would mark a change in regional dynamics, since Moscow historically supplied most of the weapons to Central Asian states.
It also cites a defense analyst at RFE/RL’s Central Asian service, saying Ukraine is unlikely to strike within Kazakhstani territory to avoid being seen as escalating the conflict.
OilPrice adds that Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan already host facilities capable of supporting Russian equipment in the field, including aircraft repair plants in both countries.