Russia has started producing a new long-range attack drone called Garpiya-A1, using a Chinese engine and parts, as reported by Reuters. Despite China claiming neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, it has strengthened economic ties with Russia, becoming a major supplier of dual-use goods to the Russian defense industry.
The drone, produced by IEMZ Kupol, a subsidiary of Almaz-Antey, has been used in Ukraine to target military and civilian installations, causing casualties and infrastructure damage. This marks a shift from Russia’s previous reliance on Iranian-designed drones.
Photos from Ukraine allegedly show the wreckage of the Garpiya-A1, supporting claims of its use in the conflict. Samuel Bendett, a senior fellow, noted the significance of Russia diversifying its drone sources to include China.
Furthermore, Iran has supplied Russia with Fath-360 ballistic missiles, confirmed by the U.S., indicating a significant escalation in the conflict. This development underscores the evolving alliances and technologies involved in the war.
The production and use of the Garpiya-A1 drone represent a new chapter in the conflict, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing crisis.
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