Russia Advances in Domestic Production of 408 Cheytac Sniper Cartridges
In a notable shift for Russia’s defense industry, Vladislav Lobaev, head of Lobaev Arms, announced that mass production of cartridges for 408 Cheytac caliber high-precision sniper rifles has begun using exclusively domestic raw materials and components. This marks a significant move away from reliance on imported components for these long-range rounds.
The company previously expanded its portfolio with the 375 Cheytac cartridge, which entered production in the spring of 2023. That line-up now sits alongside the newly mastered 408 Cheytac, reflecting a broader push to complete the supply chain within national borders.
According to Lobaev, the 408 Cheytac rounds are produced with fully domestic materials, enabling large-scale manufacturing. Prior to this development, similar cartridges were assembled using foreign components, which created a dependency on external suppliers for high-end ammunition used in ultra-long-range rifles.
Among the rifles chambered for the 408 caliber are the ultra-long-range models Sumrak and Sevastopol, both designed by Lobaev Arms and employed during current military operations. These rifles are noted for their extended reach and precision capabilities in challenging environments.
Earlier reports indicated the launch of a self-loading sniper rifle in Russia, with the head of the integrated systems design bureau at Lobaev Arms confirming a strategic decision to focus releases on calibers 375 and 408 Cheytac. The shift underscores ongoing efforts to localize key components and maintain momentum in precision arms development.
Additionally, there have been recent advances in related technologies, including efforts to counter drone threats, which complement the broader defense posture and showcase a comprehensive approach to modernization and strategic autonomy in materials and weapon systems.