13:43, 09 March 2026

Krym to Launch Kurchatov Foundation to Support Young Scientists

A new fund named after Soviet physicist Igor Kurchatov will support research projects with industrial applications

Authorities in Krym are creating a foundation to support young scientists and developers. The organization will be named after Soviet physicist Igor Kurchatov. Experts will evaluate proposed initiatives, and the fund is currently undergoing registration. Its goal is to support ideas that can be implemented at industrial enterprises, the newspaper Krymskaya gazeta reported.

Robotics Needed for Machine Building

Around 63,000 people currently work in Krym’s industrial sector, but companies face a workforce shortage estimated at about 25 percent. Under these conditions, greater emphasis on automation and digital transformation in manufacturing is seen as essential.

“Today robotics is especially needed in machine building. Solutions developed within the emerging robotics center could be applied not only at enterprises in the region but also in other parts of the country,” said Anushavan Agadzhanyan, Krym’s minister of industry and trade.

Some programs are also designed for people with disabilities. For example, one sewing enterprise in Krym has created more than 330 jobs, including positions for employees with disabilities. The factory has been equipped with modern computerized sewing machines and produces more than 220,000 units of clothing.

Remote Welding Control

Authorities also plan to launch a mineral wool manufacturing plant in Krym in test mode.

“The mineral wool plant scheduled to open in the first half of 2026 has strong prospects. The enterprise will be able to fully supply the peninsula and Russia’s new regions with thermal insulation materials. The project includes the creation of 75 jobs and equipping the production line with Russian digital equipment,” said Vladimir Konstantinov, chairman of the State Council of the Republic of Krym.

In addition, engineers at one of Krym’s enterprises are developing a system for remotely controlling welding machines. The technology is designed for operation in extremely low temperatures. For example, at −40°C it is extremely difficult for a person to operate welding equipment manually. The new system aims to address that challenge. The region has also begun developing its own industrial robots. A working group has already been formed and a project roadmap is currently being prepared.

Earlier reports said Russia plans to allocate about 80 billion rubles (roughly $958 million) for robotics development over the next six years.

Industry and import substitution