Fossil Energy – Drone Attacks
In a move to address the growing concern over drone attacks on oil and gas installations in Russia, President Vladimir Putin has signed new legislation that places the responsibility on oil and gas producers to invest in anti-drone weapons.
The amendments to existing laws permit privately held security agencies contracted by these producers to acquire and operate anti-drone weapons, which were previously only allowed for use by the police, armed forces, and state-controlled energy companies.
The increasing threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) targeting oil and gas facilities has pushed the Russian government to take action.
While media reports have only covered a few successful attacks on refineries and pipeline infrastructure, authorities have recorded 45 drone assaults in the first half of this year alone.
Many of these attacks are believed to have originated from Ukraine, targeting essential oil refineries and fuel storage depots.
The amendments to the legislation are part of a broader effort to combat the drone threat. The new laws will provide a legal framework for private security agencies working for oil producers to engage and neutralize UAVs both in the air and underwater.
This move comes as Ukraine has revealed plans to produce one million military drones in 2024, with focus on the mass production of heavy suicide aerial drones. These drones, similar to the Iranian Shaheds, have been the primary means of aerial attacks by Russia on Ukraine’s energy facilities and cities.
By allowing privately owned security agencies to acquire and use anti-drone weapons, Russia hopes to strengthen its defenses against drone attacks and enhance the protection of its critical oil and gas infrastructure.
The legislation aims to address the current gap in security, with an estimated 80% of energy installations being guarded by privately owned agencies that lack the legal authority to handle anti-drone measures.
The implementation of these new laws signifies a proactive approach by the Russian government to safeguard the nation’s vital energy sector. As the threat of drone attacks continues to evolve, countries around the world must adapt their security measures to protect critical infrastructure from this emerging threat.
