The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine publishes in the “Instruments of War” section of the War&Sanctions portal another collection of foreign technological equipment used by the largest Russian tank and armored vehicle manufacturer, Uralvagonzavod.
The portal currently contains information on more than 260 CNC machines and machining centers, as well as other high-tech foreign equipment used by the plant.
The majority of this equipment was purchased during the re-equipment of the Russian defense industry in preparation for the full-scale invasion, which, as noted by Chief Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, began as early as 2007.
Although these purchases were made before 2022, documenting this equipment is important because it requires regular maintenance, repairs, and software updates.
Manufacturing companies, both directly and through authorized dealers, can restrict the supply of spare parts, technical fluids, and software for machines used in the Russian “war machine.”
Uralvagonzavod continues to expand production to support Russian aggression.
For example, in 2024 the plant launched new tank engine production equipped with high-tech CNC machines from leading European manufacturers. Such supplies to Russia through third countries continue, although they have become more complex, longer, and more expensive due to sanctions.
Limiting the aggressor’s ability to continue the war requires the consolidation of diplomatic efforts, information sharing, and blocking schemes to circumvent sanctions at the international level. Actual investigations and increased accountability for sanctions violators are key to reducing the supply channels of military equipment.
The “Instruments of War” section of the War&Sanctions portal contains information on over 1,400 pieces of equipment used at 169 enterprises of the Russian defense industry.
For all verified cases of use, evidence has been published, including supporting documents, videos, photos, and links to information sources.
For about one-third of the published equipment, unique serial numbers are provided, which allow manufacturers to trace the machine’s path to Russia and prohibit the sale of spare parts and technical fluids for maintenance and repairs, as well as the transfer of software for updates.
