Satellite systems made in Ukraine are being imported to Russia on a massive scale - investigation
They are sold all over Russia and can be used in the war against Ukraine
Gilat SkyEdge satellite internet communication systems manufactured in Ukraine are being imported to Russia in large quantities.
Source. This is stated in an investigation by the Slidstvo Info media outlet.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the media have regularly reported on the transfer of such systems to the Russian army for use at the front.
Gilat satellite communications systems are sold en masse by dealers across Russia, and the notes to the adverts often state that they are "suitable for the needs of the Armed Forces".
They are also supplied to the structures of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the investigation says.
In 2023, about 22,000 systems worth about $5 million were imported into Russia.
"Rostelecom purchased Gilat systems in March 2024. Gilat is also a partner of the largest satellite communications operators in Russia – Rostelecom's subsidiary RTKOMM, as well as Gazprom's subsidiary Gazprom Space Systems LLC.
Gilat SkyEdge systems are manufactured in Uzhhorod by the American outsourcing company Jabil Circuit for the Israeli corporation Gilat Satellite Networks. After the outbreak of the war, it did not close its Russian business and continues to import equipment through its subsidiary Gilat Satellite Networks (Eurasia).
According to customs data, Sledstvo Info reports that a significant part of the goods of the Jabil subsidiary are exported to Hungary.
Unlike Gilat, Jabil has withdrawn from Russia and closed its production facilities there. However, according to Russian customs data, Gilat's "Ukrainian" systems are manufactured by Jabil.
Jabil Inc.'s response to Slydstvo Info's request states that the company in Uzhhorod, Ukraine, does not supply goods to Russia.
Background. As reported, according to the Financial Times, the threat of secondary US sanctions has blocked Russia's foreign trade.
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