China becomes key supplier of components for Russian drones - WP
Illustrative photo: China has become a key supplier of components for Russian drones (Getty Images)
China has significantly increased the supply of key components needed for drone production in Russia. This has allowed Russia to boost the output of unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with fiber-optic systems and gain an advantage on the battlefield, according to The Washington Post.
The outlet analyzed trade data on cargo shipments, customs dispatches, and drone supply chains, as well as statements from the companies involved.
The findings indicate that Chinese manufacturers of commercial drones have played a key role in expanding the production capacities of Russian enterprises. In doing so, they have contributed to the development of components that have direct application on the battlefield.
Increase in exports
Analysts note that the sharp rise in exports of fiber-optic cables and lithium-ion batteries, among other drone components, indicates a close partnership between Russian and Chinese manufacturers. This helps Russia gain an advantage.
"This is critically important and decisive. The Chinese are ready to adapt their production lines to meet these needs," said Kateryna Bondar, a researcher at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
According to Chinese customs data, from July to August, shipments of fiber-optic cables from China to Russia increased nearly tenfold. This followed record export volumes in May and June.
In addition, the summer saw a significant rise in exports of lithium-ion batteries, which are likely used to power drones. The increase in shipments coincided with an intensification of Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine.
In July, Reuters published data showing that Chinese drone engines were secretly supplied to Russia through shell companies. They were declared as "industrial refrigeration units" to circumvent Western restrictions.
Vladyslav Vlasyuk, Ukraine’s presidential commissioner for sanctions policy, stated that approximately 60% of foreign components found in Russian weapons are supplied from China.
