China creates obstacles for Ukraine in 'drone war'

On September 1, China imposed restrictions on the supply of civilian drones and components. This, in turn, may affect the situation in the war waged by Russia against Ukraine.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to The New York Times.

According to the Royal United Services Institute for Defense Studies (RUSI), Ukraine loses 10,000 drones at the front every month. At the same time, civilian drones from Chinese manufacturers DJI, EHang, and Autel remain the most popular.

These drones are loved by photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, but the Ukrainian military is turning them into weapons to drop explosives on the positions of the Russian occupiers. Chinese FPV drones, which are controlled by virtual reality headsets, are also popular.

According to the NYT, thanks to the restrictions, China is using covert influence on the war in Ukraine. In particular, in recent months, Chinese companies have been reducing sales of drones and drone components. While Russia purchased at least $14.5 million worth of drones in the first half of 2023. Due to the restrictions imposed in early September, the situation with the supply of UAVs has deteriorated, the publication writes.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 01/10/2023