Title: Wagner Group’s Arsenal Poses Threat to Russian President Vladimir Putin
Date: June 26, 2023
MOSCOW – Wagner, a notorious mercenary group, initially believed it had the necessary equipment and weapons to overthrow Russian President Vladimir Putin. From fighter jets to helicopters and tanks, the group boasted an extensive arsenal. However, Wagner Group’s leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, made the surprising decision to exile himself to Belarus, leaving the group in disarray.
The Wagner Group has acquired various heavy weapons from Russian military supplies and directly purchased them from North Korea. In December 2022, Russia allegedly supplied Wagner with fighter jets and short-range missiles obtained from North Korea. Additionally, reports suggest that the group procured artillery shells from North Korea, further bolstering their firepower. Tanks and other military vehicles are also at their disposal, which were utilized during the initial stages of the attempted coup against Moscow.
Among the Wagner Group’s five mainstay weapons used in the coup against Putin, the SA-22 stands out. Also known as Pantsir-S1, this anti-aircraft artillery and medium-range missile system is operated by Wagner. Produced by Russia, the SA-22 is the successor to the Tunguska M1. Its primary purpose is to provide air defense against aircraft and helicopters, safeguarding military, industrial, and administrative installations.
The SA-22 missile system offers protection to both civilian and military targets, with the ability to operate automatically. With a reaction time of 4-6 seconds, the system boasts a target probability of at least 0.7. It can engage in missile and weapon arsenal launches while on the move. Development of the Pantsir-S1 began in 1990 as a planned successor to the Tunguska M1, with a prototype completed in 1994. The system features two new radars with increased range, capable of tracking multiple air and ground targets.
The presence of such advanced weaponry in the hands of the Wagner Group raises concerns about the potential threat it poses to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the stability of the region. The international community will closely monitor the situation as the fallout from the failed coup attempt continues to unfold.
Source: https://www.sindonews.com/topic/82686/wagner
What are the potential consequences of the Wagner Group’s disarray and the dispersal of their arsenal for the broader security landscape and stability in the region
Ing his followers without a clear command structure. This sudden departure has raised concerns about the potential threat the Wagner Group poses to Putin’s regime.
Wagner Group, known for its involvement in conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, has long been suspected of having ties to the Kremlin. Its members, many of whom are former Russian military personnel, have been accused of carrying out clandestine operations in support of Russian interests abroad.
With their extensive arsenal of military equipment, including fighter jets, helicopters, and tanks, the Wagner Group seemed to have the means to challenge Putin’s authority. However, Prigozhin’s sudden exile has thrown the group into disarray, leaving its members without a clear leader and raising questions about their future actions.
While some experts argue that the disintegration of the Wagner Group may be a positive development for Putin, others warn that it could also create a power vacuum that could be exploited by other groups or individuals. The absence of a unified command structure could lead to infighting and fragmentation within the Wagner Group, potentially spilling over into the broader security landscape.
Furthermore, the dispersal of the group’s arsenal is a cause for concern. The weapons and equipment that were once under the control of the Wagner Group could now fall into the wrong hands, posing a threat not only to Putin but also to stability in the region.
The Kremlin has yet to comment on Prigozhin’s departure or the future of the Wagner Group. However, it is widely believed that Putin will take steps to ensure that any potential threats to his regime are swiftly neutralized. This may involve cracking down on any remaining Wagner Group operatives and reclaiming control over their military assets.
In the coming weeks, the international community will be closely watching the situation unfold, as the fate of the Wagner Group and its arsenal could have significant implications for the stability of the region and Putin’s grip on power.
This article shines a light on the Wagner Group’s involvement in the coup against Putin and the devastating weapon, SA-22, that was used. It’s alarming to witness such interference and raises concerns about the potential risks for world stability.