Russian Defense Minister Urges Expedited Production of Anti-tank missile systems

In a recent visit to the troops of the Western Military District, the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation, Sergei Shoigu, inspected the state defense order for the production of portable and operational-tactical missile systems.

The focus of his scrutiny was the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau Research and Production Corporation, located in the Moscow region.

During the inspection, General Shoigu examined finished samples of military hardware, including the Khrizantema-S anti-tank missile system with upgraded Khrizantema-M anti-tank guided missiles, the Gibka-S MANPADS combat vehicle, the Dzhigit support launcher with Verba MANPADS missiles, and the Arena-M active protection system.

Valery Kashin, the chief designer of the Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau Research and Production Corporation JSC, briefed the Russian Defence Minister on the ongoing projects. Kashin reported that the Arena-M active protection system, specifically designed to counter enemy anti-tank weapons, has been submitted for qualification testing. Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance the protection complex against loitering munitions.

“This active protection system, designed to counter enemy antitank weapons, has been submitted for qualification testing. Simultaneously, we are working on improving the protection complex against loitering munitions,” Kashin said.

Responding to the updates, General Shoigu issued a terse directive: "You must do it faster."

Sergei Pitikov, the General Director of the enterprise, informed the Minister that significant strides were being made to expand production capacities. Production levels of various samples across different sectors have increased several times over.

During a working session, Minister Shoigu underscored the importance of adapting and refining manufactured products promptly, considering the insights gained from their utilization in special military operations. He highlighted the need for quick adjustments, particularly for MANPADS systems, Iskander and Kinzhal missiles, and emphasized the significance of countering unmanned aerial vehicles.

"The experience with the use of these weapons systems in the special military operation has confirmed their tactical and technical characteristics," Minister Shoigu stated.