Chinese firm sells modems for Russia's Gerans: 500 units for the Alabuga plant

Chinese company Shenzhen Xingkai Technology agreed to sell 500 XK F-359 mesh modems to Russia's Alabuga drone plant for $2.87 million, the Drone Warfare Intelligence Monthly (DWIM) review reports, citing an investigation by The Insider.

According to The Insider, Xingkai supplies about half of Russia's high-power mesh modems. The modems reportedly keep working with up to 80 percent of the network lost and extend drone control range by 100 to 300 kilometres. Payments were routed through three accounts, and neither the firm nor the part number is covered by sanctions.

A supplier network

Ukrainian officials are tracking 49 firms that sustain Russia's satellite-linked drone ecosystem. Engine components from Chinese manufacturer Telefly were found in downed Geran-4 drones. According to Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), Russia has ordered more than 100,000 Gerans and decoys this year.

Figures are taken from the DWIM monthly review, which compiles government, military and media reports; some claims have not been independently verified.