Putin’s ally fueling his war machine? How a Belarusian factory supports machines for Su-57 suppliers

A BELPOL investigation published on October 26 linked Belarus’s Smorgon Optical Machine Tool Plant to Russian defence manufacturers, including suppliers associated with the Su-57 fighter programme. The plant reportedly supplied and upgraded machines used to process optical components. Its partners included Moscow’s Cyclone institute, which Ukraine’s defence intelligence linked to equipment supplies for Su-57 production. The findings highlight support for Vladimir Putin’s military industry as the Russia–Ukraine war continues amid plans for November negotiations.