The Security Service prevented the export of critically important components for naval artillery systems from Ukraine.

These include several types of artillery systems, from six-barrel AO-18 automatic guns to AK-176M universal installations, worth almost USD 1.5 million.

Such weapons are used on war ships to engage high-speed targets at short ranges, including drones and cruise missiles.

According to the investigation, the attempt to sell these components was organized by a Mykolaiv entrepreneur. He illegally acquired the weapons during the full-scale war.

To conceal the combat systems, the individual placed them in special containers that looked like water heaters.

Then, he planned to transport the weapons to affiliated companies in the EU and Southeast Asia, and from there to the aggressor state.

To this end, fictitious contracts with foreign companies under his control were concluded.

The Security Service exposed the dealer at the stage of preparation for the export of defense products and detained him.

During the searches of his warehouses and offices, the following items were seized:

• artillery installations in specialized containers;
• additional components for military boats;
• contracts with foreign companies.

The seized weapons will be transferred to the Defense Forces.

SSU investigators notified the detainee of suspicion under Articles 14.1 and 201.2 of the CCU (preparation for arms smuggling, committed by a group, upon prior conspiracy).

The suspect is in custody and faces up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.

The investigation is ongoing.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Office in Mykolaiv region under the procedural supervision of the regional prosecutor’s office.