China to license export of engines for Russian Geran drones
China has introduced export licensing for certain categories of drones, along with their components and technologies.
Source: Vladyslav Vlasiuk, Presidential Commissioner for Sanctions Policy, citing a clarification from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce
Details: Vlasiuk said the new rules will take effect on 18 November and will cover, among other things, the engines used in Russian Geran attack drones.
Quote: "Formally, the core of Russian long-range attack drones has fallen under control. This includes engines for Gerans, turbojet engines for jet-powered modifications, autopilots and jam-resistant navigation. However, whether anything will change in practice depends on how these rules are applied."
The remains of a jet engine from a Russian Geran-4 drone
Photo: Anna Shtopenko / UP
Details: Vlasiuk stressed that licensing does not equate to an export ban, adding that "general permits for up to three years are envisaged for 'reliable' exporters, alongside broad grounds for refusal".
At the same time, Vlasiuk noted that the new requirements largely do not apply to components for mass-produced frontline FPV drones.
"The new thresholds do not cover motors and speed controllers for FPVs, batteries, cameras or fibre optics. Production equipment is not covered either," he explained.
A Chinese Telefly JT80 turbojet engine used in Russian Geran-3 attack drones
Photo: War&Sanctions
Vlasiuk described China's decision as an opportunity for Ukraine, since Beijing is officially taking responsibility for controlling specific categories of goods.
"We will demand that the new rules be applied to known suppliers of the Russian defence industry. Together with our partners, we will track licences, transit channels and re-exports," he stated.
Vlasiuk said the introduction of the new rules is big news and grounds for cautious optimism.
Background:
• Earlier, Ukrainska Pravda reported that Russia had begun learning to produce Chinese Telefly TF-TJ2000A jet engines for the Geran-4 and Geran-5 drones. They are assembled from Chinese kits at the Alabuga industrial facility.
• It was also reported that Russia is experiencing problems in procuring Chinese jet engines for drones. According to Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), this is the result of sanctions imposed by Ukraine and its partners.
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