Russia Builds Deadly Iskander and Kinzhal Missiles Using US, German, and Chinese Technology

Russian defense manufacturers continue to rely on foreign industrial equipment to produce ballistic missiles and their components, including Iskander-M and Kinzhal weapons, despite efforts to replace imported technology with domestically manufactured alternatives.

Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (HUR) disclosed details of 30 pieces of foreign-made manufacturing equipment used by Russian defense enterprises, publishing the findings on its War&Sanctions portal on October 26.

The equipment originates from seven countries—the United States, Germany, China, Taiwan, Türkiye, Switzerland, and Italy—and supports the production of missile components, including guidance-related electronics, gyroscopes, aerodynamic control surfaces, and altimeters.

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Among the identified systems is a GX-650 five-axis machining center manufactured by China’s Hyper Machine Tool. According to HUR, the equipment is used at Russia’s Votkinsk Plant, which manufactures 9M723 ballistic missiles for the Iskander-M system and missile sections for the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal air-launched ballistic missile.

Ukrainian intelligence also identified Chinese-made Shtral turning and milling centers operating at PEMZ Molot, a Russian enterprise responsible for manufacturing electronic equipment modules used in Iskander-M missiles.

Another facility, UPKB Detal, reportedly uses measurement equipment produced by German manufacturer Rohde & Schwarz. The Russian company manufactures altimeters for Zircon hypersonic missiles.

HUR highlighted the growing presence of Chinese industrial machinery at Russian defense facilities, particularly advanced five-axis machining centers used for precision manufacturing. However, the intelligence agency noted that Chinese-made equipment frequently incorporates components manufactured elsewhere, including in Europe, Japan, and Taiwan.

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These components include computer numerical control systems, servo drives, precision spindles, bearings, measurement devices, rotary systems, linear guides, and temperature-control equipment.

According to Ukrainian intelligence, Russia’s continued use of such machinery demonstrates the country’s dependence on international manufacturing technologies, particularly in industries requiring high-precision production capabilities.

Earlier, on October 12, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate revealed that 58 Russian companies were involved in producing Kinzhal missiles, including 22 that remained outside international sanctions. HUR also reported that approximately 90% of the Kinzhal’s components are shared with the Iskander-M ballistic missile.

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