In the first 9 months of 2023, Russia's imports of military components decreased by 9.1%, and imports of dual-use goods decreased by 28.5%, compared to the period before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This information is highlighted in a report from the Kyiv School of Economics and the International Yermak-McFaul Expert Group.
The study analyzed data on the import of 2771 components to Russia, including microchips, navigation equipment, and various sensors. The report categorized these components into military, those contained in weapons, and "critical" components with dual-use purposes.
After the imposition of sanctions in 2022, the import of these components into Russia significantly declined. However, in 2023, the Russians adapted their supply chains and resumed purchases.
During the first 9 months of 2023, Russians imported "military" components worth 8 billion dollars and "critical" components worth 20 billion dollars. Compared to the period before February 24, 2022, the average monthly import volume of "critical" components decreased by 28.5%, and "military" components decreased by 9.1%.
The image shows an electronic block of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) used by Russia against Ukraine. Photo credit: STR/NurPhoto, via Getty Images
Analysts note that 44% of all "military" components are developments by Western companies.
This equipment can be used for the production of defense products, particularly in missile, armored, and ammunition industries.
Russian customs reports indicate that in July, Chinese manufacturers shipped equipment worth $68 million, compared to just $6.5 million in February 2022 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion.
Russian imports of machine tools from the EU, which traditionally supplied such equipment, sharply declined due to increased restrictions from February 2022.
