Seven UK-based defense industry figures have been prohibited from entering Russia, with Moscow attributing the decision to their companies’ involvement in arming Ukraine, Anadolu Agency reported.
The ban list includes leaders and advisors at Rotron Aerospace, Malloy Aeronautics, MGI Engineering, Tekever UK, and BAE Systems.
According to Russia’s Foreign Ministry, the companies supply weapons and technology that enable Ukrainian forces to strike targets far inside Russia.
Moreover, Moscow framed the restrictions as retaliation for the British government’s continued military assistance to Kyiv.
Rotron Aerospace accounts for three of the seven names, including chief executive Alex Head, chairman George Zambellas, and Kev Oliver, the company’s chief military adviser.
The report also identified Rotron as a participant in the Brakestop program to develop long-range missiles.
The list also includes Neil Appleton, executive director at drone manufacturer Malloy Aeronautics, and Robert Gascoyne, chief executive of MGI Engineering.
Moscow also barred Paul Webb, a director and co-founder of reconnaissance drone company Tekever UK, and Julian Cracknell, BAE Systems’ chief technology and information officer.
Missiles and Drones Cited
In explaining its decision, Moscow singled out British deliveries of missile and drone systems, along with technologies supporting their use.
It alleged that these transfers were intended to increase the damage Ukrainian forces could inflict on Russia.
The announcement also criticized London’s public spending priorities.
Russian officials argued that resources allocated to defense would be better directed toward civilian services and domestic economic and social needs.
Further entry restrictions could follow, the ministry said, adding that it would continue adding names in response to the UK government policies it regards as hostile.
