The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has exposed a covert operation involving Ukrainian businesses that were illegally supplying microchips for Russian missiles and drones. The companies, based in Kharkiv, Chernivtsi, and Odesa, were involved in circumventing international sanctions to provide critical electronics to Russia’s missile manufacturing sector, including parts for weapons such as the X-101, Kalibr, and Iskander-K missiles, as well as kamikaze drones and Tornado-G rockets. The Ukrainian parts were reportedly supplied through a shell company in the Middle East, also under sanctions, before reaching their final destination in Russia.
The operation has been traced back to the summer of 2022, when over 1,500 microelectronic components valued at $600,000 were shipped to Russia. These components were found to be integral to the guidance and control systems of Russian missile technology. The parts were purchased from Ukrainian companies and then routed through the Middle East, ensuring they bypassed sanctions.
The SBU’s investigation confirmed that the parts were used in Russian missiles and drones by analyzing the wreckage of downed Russian weapons. The SBU carried out a series of searches and seized key evidence of the companies’ connections to Russia. One individual has been arrested, with further arrests expected, as the investigation continues under the supervision of the Prosecutor General’s Office. The detained suspect, who held a Russian passport, has been charged with aiding the aggressor state, and if convicted, could face up to 12 years in prison, along with property confiscation.
The SBU has stated that they are working to bring all individuals involved in the scheme to justice and are actively continuing the investigation.
