China Restricts Exports of Drones That Could Be Converted for War

Western countries have accused China of supplying drones to Russia via third-party networks.

Jack Daleo

Friday, August 02, 2024 at 12:56 PM ET

Verified

Edited By: Luke Venable

China drones

Key Takeaways:

China is implementing new export controls, effective September 1, on civilian drones that can be modified for military use and related equipment like infrared lasers, while lifting some previous restrictions on consumer drones.
These measures come amid Western accusations that China is supplying Russia and ongoing concerns that Chinese drones are still reaching battlefields despite previous efforts.
The U.S. continues to exert pressure, sanctioning Chinese companies and pushing for legislative bans on Chinese drone manufacturers due to national security, cybersecurity, and alleged spying concerns.

See a mistake? Contact us.

China is restricting exports of civilian drones that could be modified and used for military purposes amid Western accusations that the country is supplying Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Per the Associated Press, China’s Commerce Ministry on Wednesday said it would attach export controls to drones that could be converted and deployed on the battlefield, as well as certain equipment, such as infrared lasers.