Ukrainian defense expert Anatoliy Chrapchynskyi has argued that Ukraine must intensify its military strikes on Russian territory to destroy key arms manufacturing sites.
Sanctions have Failed
Speaking to local media outlet NTA, Chrapchynskyi emphasized the importance of disrupting Russia's growing weapons production, citing recent declarations by President Putin about expanding Russia's defense factories.
The expert pointed out that Western sanctions have largely failed to impact Russia’s ability to produce weapons. He noted that components from American and German companies are still found in Russian weaponry, according to WP.
For example, the German electronics firm Rohde & Schwarz continues to provide key elements for communication and radar technology used by Russian forces.
Chrapchynskyi also highlighted how Russia relies on foreign technology from countries like Iran and China to circumvent sanctions. While Russia has the capacity to replicate its wartime tactics, it lacks the ability to reproduce certain sophisticated technologies, which forces it to seek international suppliers.
Regularly Strike to Hinder Drone Development
The Ukrainian expert insists that Ukraine must increase its air defense capabilities, especially by improving its radio-electronic warfare systems and drone interception techniques.
With Russia ramping up production of Shahed drones, Ukraine should regularly strike Russian military installations to hinder drone development.
Recent data from Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense supports Chrapchynskyi's concerns. In September 2024, Russia launched a record 1,339 Shahed drones against Ukrainian targets, marking a significant increase in drone-based attacks.
These drones, including the Shahed-136 (approximately 11.5 feet in length) and Shahed-131, are equipped with warheads weighing between 22 and 88 pounds.
Chrapchynskyi concludes that Russia’s strategy prioritizes quantity over quality, using an overwhelming number of weapons to bombard Ukraine. As a result, Ukraine must take more aggressive measures to weaken Russia's production capabilities and gain an advantage in the ongoing conflict.
