Russia's Military Show of Strength at 'Army 2024'

At Moscow's 'Army 2024' defence fair, Russian arms firms showcase their latest military equipment, asserting their products' battle-tested prowess from the Ukraine invasion. Despite a substantial drop in arms exports due to sanctions, Russia's defence industry continues to produce and procure weaponry with international, notably Chinese, assistance.

At this week's 'Army 2024' defence fair on the outskirts of Moscow, dozens of Russian arms firms showcased their latest military equipment, telling visitors from across Asia, Africa, and beyond that Russia's combat experience during the invasion of Ukraine now makes their products amongst the most battle-tested in the world.

According to a March report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Russian arms exports to foreign nations dropped by 52% between 2022 and 2023, largely as a consequence of Russian President Vladimir Putin's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Since then, Russia's defence industry has been largely focused on supporting domestic operations by building new missiles, drones, and shells, as well as reconditioning ageing Soviet-era tanks and vehicles. Western and Ukrainian officials acknowledge that the Kremlin has exceeded expectations in military production, aided by partnerships with Iran, North Korea, and China, but hindered by stringent Western sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies.)