**Title: Russian Drone Company Founder Survives Assassination Attempt in Tula**
In a concerning incident, the founder of a drone manufacturing company in Tula, Russia, survived an assassination attempt on July 29. The Russian Investigative Committee has initiated a criminal investigation into the case, which has drawn significant media attention.
The victim has been identified as Andrey Cherezov, the head of the Russian Laboratory of Air Transport (RLAT), a company known for producing Ovod FPV drones. According to reports from RIA Novosti, the attack occurred in the early morning hours as Cherezov was entering his apartment in a residential building located in the city center. The assailant reportedly fired multiple shots at close range before fleeing the scene.
Witness accounts indicate that Cherezov was returning home from work when the attack took place. His wife, who was inside the apartment, opened the door after hearing the gunfire. Following the shooting, Cherezov was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment in intensive care. His condition has been described as serious but stable.
RLAT, the company founded by Cherezov, has gained prominence for its development of drones and aerospace systems, particularly in the wake of increased military demand. The company specializes in secure communications, portable anti-drone radars, and electronic warfare-resistant UAV systems. Reports suggest that RLAT has been supplying its Ovod FPV drones and UAV components to the Russian military.
Financially, RLAT has shown significant growth, reporting revenues exceeding 1.3 billion rubles (approximately $16.3 million) in 2025, alongside a net profit nearing 28 million rubles (about $358,000). This financial success has contributed to the company's rising profile in the defense sector.
In a troubling development, it has been revealed that Cherezov is listed in Ukraine's Mirotvorets database, which catalogs individuals considered enemies by the Ukrainian government. This inclusion raises questions about the potential motivations behind the assassination attempt, although investigators have yet to establish a clear link between the attack and Cherezov's business activities.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, RLAT was recently included in the European Union's 21st package of sanctions against Russia, further complicating the geopolitical context surrounding the company and its operations.
As of now, law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads to identify the assailant. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and investigators are working diligently to uncover any connections that may exist between Cherezov's work and the attempted murder.
The incident has sparked discussions about the safety of business leaders in Russia, particularly those involved in sectors linked to military and defense technologies. As the investigation unfolds, more information may come to light regarding the circumstances surrounding the assassination attempt and its implications for the drone industry in Russia.
In summary, the attempted murder of Andrey Cherezov marks a significant event in the realm of Russian entrepreneurship and the defense sector. With ongoing investigations and the potential for broader implications, this incident is likely to remain in the public eye as authorities seek answers and justice.