The Security Service of Ukraine has prevented the export of critical military components for artillery systems from the country.
This involves various artillery systems, including six-barrel automatic guns AO-18 and universal installations AK-176M, valued at approximately 1.5 million USD.
Such equipment is used on combat ships to target fast-moving objects at short distances, including drones and cruise missiles.
According to the investigation, a Mykolaiv businessman was involved in this illegal activity, having unlawfully acquired military equipment during the ongoing war.
To conceal the smuggling, he placed the weapons in specially designed containers that appeared externally as water heaters.
To camouflage the operation, he planned to transport the combat systems to affiliated companies in EU and Southeast Asian countries, and from there – to the aggressor country, by forging contracts with foreign companies.

SBU officers uncovered the perpetrator at the preparation stage for the export and detained him.

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

•  artillery systems in specially made containers;
•  additional components for military boats;
•  contracts with foreign enterprises.

The seized weapons will be transferred for the needs of the Defense Forces.

SBU investigators have notified the suspect of charges under Part 1 of Article 14 and Part 2 of Article 201 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (preparation for arms smuggling). He faces up to 12 years in prison with property confiscation. The investigation continues to hold all responsible parties accountable.
The operation was conducted by SBU employees in the Mykolaiv region under the supervision of the regional prosecutor's office.