Russia Lets Banks Fight Back Against Drones

Russia has adopted a new law that gives its central bank and major banks the right to set up defense systems and arm employees so they can stop drone attacks without involving military forces. The law, approved by the lower house of parliament, is a response to the frequent drone strikes launched from Ukraine against Russian infrastructure since the full‑scale invasion began in February 2022. The strikes mainly target energy facilities, aiming to cut off revenue streams for the Russian war effort. The defense equipment will be positioned near key financial institutions, including the central bank, Sberbank – Russia’s largest commercial bank – and the Russian Cash Collection Association. Employees at these sites will be allowed to carry weapons. The institutions themselves will cover the costs of installing and maintaining the anti‑drone systems, according to statements from Anatoly Aksakov, head of the financial committee in the State Duma.Business leaders have expressed readiness to fund more advanced weaponry and electronic countermeasures for protecting critical infrastructure. Alexander Shokhin, head of Russia’s leading business lobby, told President Vladimir Putin that companies are prepared to finance the purchase of heavier weapons and electronic systems to defend against drone attacks. This move shifts some responsibility for national security from the military to civilian institutions, potentially speeding up response times and increasing resilience of essential services. However, it also raises questions about the safety of armed civilians and the legal limits of such measures. The law reflects Russia’s growing concern over persistent drone threats and its willingness to explore unconventional defense strategies.