The Izhevsk Electromechanical Plant "Kupol" (IEMZ "Kupol", a subsidiary of "Almaz-Antey") has launched the production of "Harpy-3" UAVs in China, according to Reuters, citing two sources from a European intelligence agency.
According to the news agency, IEMZ "Kupol" developed and conducted flight tests of the "Harpy-3" (G3) UAV in China. The company reported that it is capable of producing these UAVs in large volumes.
Reuters reached out to the Chinese Foreign Ministry for comment. The ministry said it was unaware of such a project. The agency's source noted that Beijing strictly controls the export of UAVs to other countries.
The White House National Security Council is deeply concerned about reports of possible UAV production in China. This means that China is providing direct assistance to Russia, which is under Western sanctions.
Features of the "Harpy-3" UAV:
- Flight range — 2000 km
- Payload — 50 kg
Other technical characteristics of the drone are unknown.
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