Russia's Siberian Factory: New Power in the Ukraine Conflict

Russia is undertaking a significant expansion of a factory in remote Siberia to ramp up production of a powerful explosive used in artillery shells, according to a Reuters investigation. The move is seen as a strategic effort to increase Moscow's firepower in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The explosive being produced, RDX, is not currently manufactured at the Biysk Oleum Plant, where construction is underway. This expansion comes as Ukraine and its allies boost their ordnance production, aiming to counter Russian advances on the battlefield.

With dwindling stockpiles and a reliance on imported munitions, the new production line could significantly bolster Russia's military capabilities. The project faces challenges from Western sanctions and labor shortages but is seen as critical to maintaining Russia's artillery strength.

(With inputs from agencies.)