Chinese restrictions cause disruptions in drone deliveries to Russia

"The restrictions imposed by the Chinese government on the export of drones have significantly complicated their deliveries to Russia and led to a shortage of various components, such as thermal imagers," the material states.

It is noted that large Russian drone manufacturers managed to create substantial reserves and hope that their suppliers in China can obtain licenses for exports to Russia, but the process may take up to a year.

To achieve this, it is necessary to prove that the drones will not be used for military purposes. Sellers of Chinese drones in Russia are attempting to establish "parallel imports," the article reports.

It is also specified that some have begun to complain that Kazakhstan has recently tightened the procedure for importing drones.

What else is known about China's restrictions

China's restrictions on the export of drones, effective from September 1st, have led to the cessation of deliveries of components and drones weighing over 4 kg.

Certain types of drones are already experiencing shortages, including agricultural drones, which typically weigh between 30-40 kg and are currently produced in Russia in limited quantities.

Supply of Chinese drones to Russia

The Telegraph reported that since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in Ukraine, China had been providing helicopters, drones, sights, and components for military production to Russia.

The New York Times also previously published material stating that China had sent drones and related parts to Russia worth over $12 million.

Following this, the Chinese government announced that from September 1st, it would implement export control over certain drones and related equipment to prevent their use in combat operations.