Introduction
The Russian Army Expo (officially known as the International Military-Technical Forum “ARMY”) has become one of the world’s most significant defense exhibitions, highlighting Moscow’s latest military advancements despite Western sanctions. Held annually near Moscow, the event attracts global attention, especially from non-Western allies seeking Russian weapons and technology.
This article explores the key highlights of the expo, its geopolitical significance, and how Russia uses the forum to strengthen military partnerships amid ongoing conflicts and trade restrictions.
1. What is the Russian Army Expo?
- Organized by: Russian Ministry of Defense
- Location: Patriot Park, Kubinka Air Base (near Moscow)
- Frequency: Annual (since 2015)
- Main Focus: Land, air, naval, and aerospace defense systems
- Key Attendees:
- Military delegations from BRICS, CIS, Africa, and Middle East
- Defense contractors (Rosoboronexport, Kalashnikov, Rostec)
- Sanctioned states (Iran, North Korea, Syria)
2. 2025 Expo Highlights: Russia’s Latest Military Tech
A. Next-Gen Weaponry
- T-14 Armata Tank – Russia’s “unstoppable” next-gen battle tank (despite limited deployment in Ukraine).
- Sukhoi Su-57 Felon – Stealth fighter jet, now being offered to allies like Algeria and India.
- Kinzhal Hypersonic Missiles – Showcased as a NATO deterrent.
B. Drone & Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems
- Lancet & Orion Drones – Used extensively in Ukraine, now exported to Iran and Myanmar.
- Krasukha & Murmansk EW Systems – Designed to disable Western satellites and drones.
C. Nuclear & Strategic Defense
- Sarmat ICBM (SATAN 2) – The world’s longest-range nuclear missile.
- Avangard Hypersonic Glide Vehicle – Uninterceptable warhead tech.
D. Small Arms & Infantry Gear
- AK-12 & AK-19 Rifles – Latest Kalashnikov models for modern warfare.
- Ratnik-3 Exoskeletons – AI-assisted combat suits in development.
3. Geopolitical Significance: Who’s Buying?
A. BRICS & Allies
- India – Still purchasing S-400 missiles despite U.S. pressure.
- China – Joint development of hypersonic tech.
- Algeria, Egypt, UAE – Major buyers of air defense systems.
B. Sanctioned States
- Iran – Drone and missile tech exchanges.
- North Korea – Suspected arms-for-food deals.
- Mali – Russian mercenary-linked weapon supplies.
C. Africa’s Growing Market
- Wagner-linked regimes (CAR, Sudan, Burkina Faso) – Buying rifles, body armor, and EW systems.
4. How Russia Circumvents Sanctions to Sell Arms
A. Shadow Companies & Third Countries
- Rosoboronexport uses UAE, Türkiye, and Armenia as intermediaries.
- Cryptocurrency payments (BTC, USDT) for sensitive deals.
B. Barter & Resource Swaps
- Oil-for-drones with Iran
- Diamonds-for-arms with African nations
C. “Civilian” Dual-Use Exports
- Commercial drones modified for military use.
- “Agricultural” equipment with battlefield applications.
5. Challenges & Controversies
A. Quality Concerns
- Ukrainian captures reveal poor electronics in Russian tanks.
- Sanctions limit high-tech chip supplies, affecting precision weapons.
B. Western Countermeasures
- U.S. CAATSA sanctions threaten buyers of Russian arms.
- EU bans on components disrupt production.
C. Competition from China & Türkiye
- Cheaper Chinese drones outselling Russian models.
- Turkish Bayraktar TB2 dominating African markets.
6. Future Outlook: Can Russia Sustain Its Arms Trade?
✅ Short-Term (2025-2026) – Demand from BRICS and Africa will keep exports flowing.
⚠️ Long-Term (2030+) – Sanctions, tech stagnation, and Chinese competition may weaken Russia’s edge.
Conclusion
The Russian Army Expo is more than just a weapons show—it’s a strategic tool for Moscow to maintain military alliances and bypass Western isolation. While sanctions have hurt high-tech arms development, demand from the Global South ensures Russia remains a top global arms exporter.