belarus Is Increasing Defense Production to Meet the Needs of russia’s Military-Industrial Complex

After the outbreak of russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, demand for belarusian defense technologies has increased dramatically. Against the background of Western sanctions and logistical barriers, moscow is looking for alternative sources of components – in particular for drones and missile weapons.

The government of belarus is speeding up the launch of production facilities related to drones, dual-use electronics, and aiming equipment. Projects with military potential have become a priority in the country’s innovation strategy, which previously focused on civilian industries – from agricultural machinery to pharmaceuticals.

While the implementation of many civilian innovations – new tractors, medicines, or food products – is scheduled for years in advance, investments in the military–industrial complex are increasingly of a long-term nature. Most military–related facilities are expected to be built and put into operation within a year and a half.

Examples include a plant for the production of composite elements for UAVs, created on the basis of the Scientific and Production Centre for Multipurpose Unmanned Systems. The project was frozen back in 2020, but resumed after the outbreak of war. By the end of 2024, the enterprise was built and equipped, and in February 2025, it was launched. In March, it reached full capacity.

The dynamics is similar at “Zenit–BelOMO” (“Zenit – Belarusian Optical and Mechanical Plant” – Transl.), which is launching production of sighting and auto components for the domestic market and partners from the CIS countries. The lines are scheduled to be launched in August, and the plant should be fully operational by the end of the year.

In turn, “Integral” continues to expand its production capacity for dual-use electronics. In particular, we are talking about chips that the rf can use for guidance systems in X-101 missiles. The new workshop is to be put into operation in December, and in 2026 it is expected to reach its nominal production level.