Russia's Weapons Rely on Western Components Despite Tighter Export Controls
Western countries have recently tightened export controls for electronic components to Russia, aiming to prevent sanctions evasion. Despite these measures, Russian weapons continue to rely on components from the West, as confirmed by Ukrainian intelligence and independent researchers.
Ukraine has revealed that the recent mass attack involving 549 weapon systems and 102,785 foreign-made components is just one example of Russia's dependence on Western technology. These weapons, including upgraded Shahed drones equipped with Nvidia AI hardware, contained thousands of parts from the US, China, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands.
President Zelenskyy has urged international partners to close sanctions loopholes, as Russian and Belarusian electronics have been increasingly used in recently produced Iskander missiles. Ukrainian intelligence has confirmed this trend, with an increase in Russian and Belarusian electronics in these weapons. The 'Components in the aggressor's weapon' database, maintained by Ukraine, currently lists over 5,000 distinct foreign components tied to 177 weapon systems. Earlier inspections have also revealed extensive use of imported electronics in Russian systems.
The tightening of export controls and the increased awareness of Russia's reliance on Western components highlight the importance of closing sanctions loopholes. By doing so, international partners can effectively limit Russia's ability to produce and maintain its weaponry, supporting Ukraine's efforts to defend against Russian aggression.
