WP: China fuels Russia’s drone surge with fiber-optic exports

China has significantly bolstered Russia's battlefield capabilities in Ukraine by sharply increasing exports of dual-use components essential for drone production.

Despite official claims of neutrality, Chinese shipments of fibre-optic cables and lithium-ion batteries to Russia surged over the summer, enabling the production of fibre-optic drones that are resistant to electronic jamming and capable of striking deep into Ukrainian territory, Caliber.Az reports per The Washington Post.

According to data from China's customs administration, exports of fibre-optic cables to Russia grew almost tenfold between July and August, reaching 328,000 miles (528,000 km).

In comparison, Ukraine received only 72 miles (116 km) of such cables during the same period. Exports of lithium-ion batteries to Russia also rose sharply, peaking at $54 million in June before slightly decreasing to $47 million in August. These batteries are likely used to power drones, as Russia produces few electric vehicles or electronics.

Fibre-optic drones, which operate using ultra-thin glass cables traditionally used for high-speed internet, unspool mid-flight for distances of 12 miles (19 km) or more. These drones are increasingly used by Moscow because they are less susceptible to interception and electronic warfare.

As Samuel Bendett, an adjunct senior fellow at the Centre for a New American Security, noted, "They're difficult to defend against, and they can do a significant amount of damage."

China's support for Russia's drone production extends beyond component exports. Chinese commercial drone manufacturers have been instrumental in helping Russian UAV manufacturers expand production and develop components specifically designed for combat applications.

Since 2023, at least 140 drone manufacturers and another 60 entities that supply parts, resell drones, or train operators have been registered in Russia.

Despite U.S. and E.U. sanctions on Russian and Chinese companies, enforcement challenges persist, especially with indirect or unregulated trade.

European leaders have expressed concern over Beijing's selective implementation of its own export controls and have urged China to "use its influence and leverage over Russia to facilitate a peaceful settlement in Ukraine, but [they] think China is not doing enough."

In conclusion, China's significant increase in exports of dual-use components to Russia has played a crucial role in enhancing Moscow's drone capabilities, thereby impacting the dynamics of the conflict in Ukraine.

By Aghakazim Guliyev