Development of new weapons, civilian transport: statements by Rostec CEO

Russian state corporation Rostec says it has been supplying the military with new Sarma multiple launch rocket systems and Scalpel drones, meeting about 80% of the armed forces' needs within the special military operation and bringing victory closer, according to the corporation's statement.

Coverage Comparison

Reports from Russian state news agencies, all citing statements from Rostec and its CEO Sergey Chemezov, were largely consistent. TASS articles spoke of production of ammunition and armored vehicles, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, fighter jets, bombers, howitzers, missile systems, multiple launch rocket systems, drones, and more, with factories operating in shifts. Alongside the Sarma, the new Scalpel drone was also reported, described as new and advanced.

Key Claims

Rostec says the Sarma MLRS, which began deliveries to the military last year, is a capable system with a 300 mm caliber and high power, mobility, and protection, including automation. According to the corporation, the system succeeds the Smerch and Tornado-S heavy MLRS line, with a reduced number of launch tubes (six, not twelve) for a lighter vehicle with better cross-country mobility and an automated fire control system.

The Scalpel was developed by Rostec and is described as a maneuverable X-wing drone that can strike vulnerable targets from any angle.

Perspectives

The only perspectives available are those of the Russian officialdom — as referenced sources are Russian state news agencies' English-language services. The Rostec head is quoted saying, "We are, after all, a defense company; our main task is to fulfill the state defense order and do everything to bring victory in Ukraine closer." Fulfillment is also reported at 99.5% or "fairly high" — figures and statements that may not be independently verifiable; however, the reports mutually corroborate what Rostec chooses to publicize, and no counterpoints were provided in these extracts.

Timeline and Defense Programs

The reports also conveyed from Rostec expectations to complete certification of the MS-21 aircraft in Q1 2027 and begin serial production, planning as many as 36 MS-21s, 20 SSJ-100s, and 12 Il-114s by 2030. This is set within a larger context of Russian aircraft manufacturing plans and shows a broader enterprise program.

All three sources say essentially the same Russian official message, their history is of importance, and they reflect exactly how a Russian state agency frames discussions of weapons and defense procurement.