Russia has initiated a weapons program in China to develop and produce long-range attack drones for use in its war against Ukraine, according to European intelligence sources and documents reviewed by Reuters. The program, led by IEMZ Kupol, a subsidiary of Russian state-owned weapons company Almaz-Antey, has reportedly developed and tested the Garpiya-3 (G3) drone in collaboration with Chinese experts.
Documents show Kupol has informed Russia’s defense ministry that it can manufacture the G3 drone at scale in a Chinese factory. This drone, designed for the “special military operation” in Ukraine, can carry a 50 kg payload over 2,000 kilometers. Additionally, Kupol has received several Chinese-made drones, including two G3 models, for further testing in Russia.
The Chinese foreign ministry denied any knowledge of the project, maintaining that China has strict export controls on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). While there is no confirmed information regarding the involvement of Chinese entities in drone production for Russia, experts acknowledge that such a collaboration, if verified, would mark a significant development.
Both Russia and Ukraine have been rapidly increasing drone production due to the weapon’s effectiveness in combat. While China has consistently denied providing weapons to Russia, it has faced accusations of supplying dual-use goods, like components that can be incorporated into military technology. The partnership between Kupol and Chinese firms could allow Russia to sidestep Western sanctions, accessing advanced technology through production in China.
Beijing, however, faces potential risks if proven to be supporting Russia’s military efforts, particularly in light of possible international sanctions. The ongoing collaboration between Russian and Chinese firms could signal deeper cooperation in drone development in the future.
