Russian Defence Minister Pulls Up Uraltransmash Enterprise for Delaying Artillery Systems' Production

Russian Defense Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu has expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of artillery systems production at the Ural Plant of Transport Engineering (Uraltransmash) during his recent inspection.

The focus of his visit was on the production and repair of self-propelled artillery systems, including the 2S19 Msta-S, 2S3 Akatsiya, 2S4 Tyulpan, 2S5 Giatsint, and 2S35 Koalitsiya SV.

Oleg Yemelyanov, the General Director of Uraltransmash, reported a significant sixfold increase in the production volume of self-propelled artillery systems compared to 2022. He highlighted that the first batch of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV self-propelled artillery systems is nearing completion.

However, the defense minister criticized the chief designer of the company for causing delays in the production of one of the promising artillery systems. Despite the increase in production, General Shoigu emphasized the importance of utilizing all available opportunities to further boost production.

"If there are opportunities, then we should use these opportunities," stressed Sergei Shoigu during the inspection.

The defense minister specified the plans for the upcoming months and urged the enterprise to fulfill the President's order to increase the production of self-propelled artillery. Shoigu underscored the significance of meeting the President's instructions, linking them directly to combat readiness.

"We have already reached a good pace in terms of repairs and new Msta guns, and now we need to strengthen it in relation to other systems. I would like to receive a report within a week on how we are going to reach the indicators set by the President's order," stated Shoigu.

Highlighting the demand for the new self-propelled artillery systems, the defense minister called for an acceleration of testing and the earliest possible start of serial production. He emphasized the necessity of entering into long-term contracts to meet the increasing demand.

The defense minister acknowledged the positive changes at the Uraltransmash plant, noting the significant increase in production volumes and the introduction of new equipment. He particularly focused on the progress in manufacturing new self-propelled artillery systems, revealing that the work has reached its final stages.

"In February, we will receive the first six vehicles. Then there is the ammunition issue: timely delivery is necessary," stated Shoigu, addressing the ongoing tests being conducted by groups of factories and enterprises producing ammunition.

During discussions with assembly plant workers, the defense minister was informed that the average salary for a worker at the plant is around 130,000 roubles, dependent on their qualifications.