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[INTERNATIONAL] · China, Russia, Ukraine, United States · 6 sources

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Jilin Chemical Fiber Group supplied drone materials to sanctioned Russian entity

Internal Russian shipping documents reveal that the Chinese state-owned Jilin Chemical Fiber Group has been supplying critical materials to Russia's military-industrial complex. Specifically, the company reportedly shipped 46 metric tons of polyacrylonitrile (PAN precursor) to Alabuga-Volokno, a subsidiary of the Russian state nuclear agency Rosatom.

PAN precursor is a vital component used to manufacture high-strength carbon fiber, which is essential for constructing long-range kamikaze drones, such as the Geran-2. Experts estimate that the 46 tons of material supplied could be used to produce carbon fiber for as many as 1,300 drones.

To evade detection and sanctions, the shipments were allegedly disguised using civilian customs codes for materials like nylon and polyester rather than being classified as dual-use military components. The authenticity of these documents has been verified by both the US House Select Committee on China and the Ukrainian government. While Alabuga-Volokno is already under Western sanctions, Jilin Chemical Fiber Group is not currently sanctioned, though analysts suggest the evidence provides a basis for future US sanctions.

Entities

Alabuga-Volokno · China · Jilin Chemical Fiber Group · Rosatom · Russia

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