Russia unveils “Chapai” remote combat module, mimicking Ukrainian “Shablia”

The turret is capable of firing from various machine guns. Like Ukrainian Shablia, it is controlled by cable but has not entered serial production yet.

Aug 14, 2024 - 07:36

Russia unveils “Chapai” remote combat module, mimicking Ukrainian “Shablia”

Chapai turret

Russia has once again demonstrated its tendency to copy Ukrainian military innovations with the introduction of a remotely controlled machine gun turret named “Chapai,” the Defense Express reports. This development was first showcased at the “Army-2024” defense forum currently taking place near Moscow.

The “Chapai” turret, presented by the “Era” investment fund which finances Russian arms developers, bears striking similarities to Ukraine’s “Shablia“ turret. The Ukrainian turret has been contracted for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) since September 2023, although it has been deployed on the frontlines since the early days of the 2014 war in eastern Ukraine.

The Russian “Chapai“ appears to have replicated both the concept and implementation of the Ukrainian “Shablia.“ Key features include remote control via wires and the use of an optical-aiming module. Like its Ukrainian counterpart, “Chapai“ is adaptable to various machine guns, including the 7.62mm PKM or the 12.7mm NSV “Utes“ and “Kord”.

Ukraine’s “Shablya“ turret has received numerous positive reviews from soldiers and is contracted for use by the AFU. It’s not only used as a standalone turret but also integrated into ground drones.

Shablya robotic turret Ukraine drones war — The Shablya robotic turret. Photo: Brave1

This is not the first instance of Russia copying Ukrainian military technology. Previously, they’ve attempted to replicate the remote control principle of the Ukrainian “Stugna“ anti-tank guided missile system and are gradually modernizing old Soviet complexes like “Fagot“ with remote control modules.

You could close this page. Or you could join our community and help us produce more materials like this. We keep our reporting open and accessible to everyone because we believe in the power of free information. This is why our small, cost-effective team depends on the support of readers like you to bring deliver timely news, quality analysis, and on-the-ground reports about Russia's war against Ukraine and Ukraine's struggle to build a democratic society. A little bit goes a long way: for as little as the cost of one cup of coffee a month, you can help build bridges between Ukraine and the rest of the world, plus become a co-creator and vote for topics we should cover next. Become a patron or see other ways to support. Become a Patron!