Russia allegedly uses Western equipment in Oreshnik missile production – media

Financial Times reported the information.

The outlet states that two leading Russian weapon development institutes, identified by Ukrainian intelligence as the developers of the "Oreshnik" missile, are recruiting employees with expertise in metalworking systems from German and Japanese companies.

These job advertisements, from the Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology (MITT) and the "Sozvezdie" concern, illustrate how the Kremlin's military complex remains critically reliant on foreign technology, even under Western sanctions.

The FT emphasized the importance of computer numerical control (CNC) systems, which allow factories to process materials with high precision under computerized guidance. This technology is essential for "Oreshnik" missile production.

For instance, MITT's job postings indicate adherence to systems from Japanese company Fanuc, as well as German companies Siemens and Heidenhain. All three manufacturers produce CNC control systems for high-precision machines.

Similarly, job listings from "Sozvezdie" mention these Western companies, stating that one of their specializations is "automated control and communication systems" for military applications.

Additionally, job ads reveal that "Stan," a company spearheading Russia's efforts to create a domestic CNC industry, also uses equipment from Germany's Heidenhain.

The FT, referencing Russian documents, noted that despite slowed equipment imports to Russia, deliveries worth at least $3 million containing Heidenhain components have arrived in Russia since the start of 2024.

• Russian leader Vladimir Putin claimed on November 21 that Russia tested its "Oreshnik" medium-range ballistic missile during an attack on Dnipro, adding that Moscow "will respond to escalation."
• According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russia struck Dnipro with a ballistic missile from the "Kedr" complex, carrying 36 submunitions. Earlier reports in Ukraine speculated that Russia used the intercontinental ballistic missile RS-26 "Rubezh," while Putin referred to the "Oreshnik" medium-range missile.