Ukraine Alleges Indian Components in Russian Drones

Ukrainian authorities have formally approached both the Indian government and the European Union (EU) over the discovery of Indian-made or assembled electronic components in Iranian-designed drones utilised by Russian forces. These drones, specifically the Shahed-136 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), are widely deployed in attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and civilians.

Ukrainian officials have reportedly contacted India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) through diplomatic channels at least twice since 2024. Investigations by Ukrainian defence authorities identified components from two Indian firms: a "bridge rectifier E300359" from Vishay Intertechnology, assembled in India and found in a drone's voltage regulator, and a PLL-based signal generator chip (AU5426A) from Bengaluru-based Aura Semiconductor, allegedly used in its satellite navigation system.

India's MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the export of dual-use goods is governed by a strong domestic legal framework and adheres to international obligations, affirming that neither company has breached Indian law. Aura Semiconductor expressed being "deeply disturbed" by the possibility of its products reaching defence manufacturers via unauthorised third-party channels, noting that the "plug-and-play" nature of its components makes end-use traceability challenging.