Russia has secretly set up a program in China to build long-range kamikaze drones for use in its war in Ukraine, according to leaked documents cited by Reuters.
The documents, five in total, included communications from Russian firm Kupol to the defense ministry, detailing the successful development and flight-testing of a new drone model in China with the help of local specialists.
It also mentioned establishing a capability in China to support full-scale production of Russian drones, such as the Garpiya-3 (G3), so they can be rapidly deployed on the battlefield.
To prove these claims, Reuters said it obtained two invoices documenting the delivery of seven made-in-China drones to Kupol’s headquarters in Izhevsk, Russia.
It was not immediately clear what Chinese companies are involved in the program and where exactly they are producing the drones.
‘Deeply Concerning’
NATO has been informed of the report and is reportedly discussing the matter among member states.
Alliance spokesperson Farah Dakhlallah described the claims as “deeply concerning,” warning they could “fuel the largest conflict in Europe since the Second World War.”
She said such developments could also affect China’s interests and reputation if proven true.
The White House has also expressed concerns about the alleged secret drone program, viewing it as further evidence of Beijing’s involvement in the full-scale war.
While the documents do not suggest a direct link to the Chinese government, the White House emphasized that Beijing still has a responsibility to ensure that its defense industry does not provide lethal aid to Russia.
China’s foreign ministry, for its part, stated it was not aware of such a project and noted that the country maintains strict controls on drone exports.
Similar to Reaper?
The G3 is the latest and most advanced variant in the Garpiya drone family.
Chinese experts reportedly assisted in refining the system to make it more lethal and effective on the battlefield.
It boasts a maximum range of 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) and can carry payloads of up to 50 kilograms (110 pounds).
Intelligence sources told Reuters that the drone is comparable to the US-made Reaper, which has an operational range of 1,850 kilometers (1,150 miles).
Based on the leaked invoices, two G3s have already been delivered to Russia for further testing.