Chinese Experts Assisted Russian Arms Maker in Drone Development – Reuters

According to "Reuters", Chinese experts repeatedly visited Russia’s sanctioned arms manufacturer Kupol to assist with the development and testing of military drones. Documents and European security officials revealed that Kupol received shipments of Chinese-made attack and surveillance drones through intermediaries.

The investigation shows the cooperation began in 2024, with Chinese specialists participating in tests of A60, A100, A200, and other drone models, while also helping assemble the UAVs at Russian facilities. At the same time, Kupol received multiple deliveries of drones produced by Chinese companies, including Sichuan AEE.

Beijing officially denies supplying lethal aid to either side of the war in Ukraine, but the findings suggest growing technological ties between China and Russia. This has raised concern in the US and EU, which have repeatedly warned China against supporting Moscow’s defense industry.