Russia allows private companies to buy anti-drone weapons including artillery systems

Private companies in Russia have been granted permission to procure large-calibre weapons and technical systems for protection against drone attacks. The permitted equipment includes anti-aircraft artillery complexes, turrets, radar systems, and electronic warfare systems.

Russia has quietly expanded its domestic arms market, permitting private companies to purchase heavy anti-drone weaponry for self-defence purposes, according to sources cited by RBC. The move reflects growing concern inside Russia about the vulnerability of civilian and industrial infrastructure to unmanned aerial vehicle strikes.

The equipment now available for private procurement includes anti-aircraft artillery complexes, automated gun turrets, radar detection systems, and electronic warfare and radio-frequency jamming units. Previously, such systems were restricted to state and military entities.

The decision signals a significant shift in Russian security policy, effectively militarising private sector infrastructure defence. Analysts note that Ukraine's increasing use of long-range drones targeting Russian territory — including oil refineries, energy facilities, and logistics hubs — has forced Moscow to reconsider who bears responsibility for air defence away from the front lines.

By allowing private businesses to arm themselves with such systems, the Kremlin appears to be distributing the burden of air defence across the wider economy. Critics may argue this further blurs the line between civilian and military activity, raising concerns under international law about the status of such facilities in a conflict context.