Polonez-M missile transfer to Russia blocked without China’s nod
Without China's consent, Belarusian Polonez-M systems cannot be transferred to Russia. These systems, among the most advanced weapons of the Lukashenko regime, have recently undergone combat readiness tests.
The South China Morning Post examined Belarusian weapons. The Polonez-M systems have significant ties to China, having been developed in collaboration with Chinese engineers and utilising Chinese-made missiles.
Russians have no chance for the Polonez-M systems
Therefore, any potential transfer of the Polonez-M systems to Russia would require Beijing's consent. Such consent is highly unlikely despite the tense relations between Beijing and the West.
A "South China Morning Post" columnist emphasised that Beijing and Minsk are attempting "not to cross the West's red lines in military cooperation both with each other and with Russia." Therefore, their collaboration is expected to remain primarily in the economic sphere.
The Polonez-M missile systems differ significantly from the post-Soviet weapons that still constitute a large part of the Belarusian army's equipment. Their range is estimated at 300 kilometres (with an error margin of about 30 metres due to inertial and satellite navigation). The missiles used have a calibre of 301 mm.
Belarus is an ally of Russia
The launchers used in the Polonez-M systems have eight guides and are mounted on the MZKT-7930 transporter's chassis in an 8x8 drive configuration. The complete combat group also includes transport-loading vehicles for transporting and loading ammunition and a command vehicle (in a 6x6 drive configuration).
Questions about the potential transfer of Polonez-M systems to Russia arose from the extensive cooperation between Belarus and Russia. The Lukashenko regime also supports the invasion of Ukraine, providing both territory for military operations and logistical support, including weapons.
Initially, reports surfaced about support in the form of artillery ammunition. Later, it expanded to include heavy military equipment, such as Kamaz and Ural trucks, T-72A tanks, and BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles.
