Russia has started producing a new long-range attack drone called the Garpia-A1, using Chinese engines and components, and has already deployed it in the war in Ukraine.
Target Both Military and Civilian Infrastructure
Over 2,500 Garpia drones were produced by IEMZ Kupol, a subsidiary of the Russian state-owned weapons manufacturer Almaz-Antei, according to Digi24
The Garpia drone weighs under 300 kilograms and has a maximum range of 1,500 kilometers, making it similar in capability to Iran’s Shahed-136 drones, which have been used extensively by Russia in Ukraine.
According to Reuters’ sources, Garpia has been used to target both military and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, causing significant damage and casualties.
While the Garpia resembles the Shahed drone, it has unique features, including a special wing design and a Limbach L-550 E engine. Originally developed by a German company, this engine is now produced in China by Xiamen Limbach.
Drone Production Expanded
Experts suggest that Russia’s production of the Garpia could signal a shift away from reliance on Iranian drones, as Moscow turns to domestic development and Chinese components.
Russia’s drone production has expanded rapidly, with Kupol manufacturing hundreds of Garpia drones in late 2023 and ramping up to over 2,000 units in the first half of 2024. The drones are assembled at a former cement plant in Izhevsk, Russia.
Despite international sanctions and U.S. warnings to China about supporting Russia's military industry, Chinese companies continue to supply parts.
NATO has urged China to cease its assistance, claiming that Beijing’s support is prolonging the conflict. Meanwhile, China maintains that its trade with Russia complies with international laws.
