Russia Arms Grain Carriers as Ukraine Drones Target Maritime Infrastructure

Russia's grain exports are facing a new threat as Ukrainian drones target maritime infrastructure. To counter this, Russian officials are proposing to equip grain carriers with machine guns and military escorts.

The measures include temporary installation of heavy machine guns and mobile missile launchers on bulk cargo vessels. Grain carriers could be fitted with armour plating, sandbags, anti-drone netting, and special mounts for heavy machine guns.

Armed military personnel would accompany vessels during the initial stage of their voyages. After passing through the Kerch Strait, troops would leave the vessels, taking the weapons and ammunition with them.