Irish Components Found in Russian Drones Despite EU Ban
Electronic components manufactured by Irish companies are reportedly being used in Russian-made drones deployed in Ukraine, despite European Union sanctions intended to prevent such exports. An investigation by The Irish Times revealed that nearly 10 tonnes of components from Irish firms reached Russia over a 15-month period beginning in January 2024, primarily through wholesale and export companies, particularly those based in China.
Key Findings of the Investigation
The investigation identified that 1.3 tonnes of antennas originally produced by Taoglas, an Irish company headquartered in Enniscorthy, County Wexford, were imported into Russia in 2024. These lightweight antennas, weighing as little as 9 grams each, were sufficient to manufacture approximately 36,000 Geran-2 kamikaze drones. The Geran-2 drone is a key component of Russia’s strategy to target Ukrainian civilian and energy infrastructure [Source: The Irish Times].
Ukrainian intelligence analysis, which remains unpublished, has also found sensors manufactured by TE Connectivity, another Irish-headquartered company based in County Galway, within the guidance systems of these drones [Source: The Irish Times].
EU Sanctions and Export Controls
The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of EU export controls, which were implemented in February 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These rules prohibit the export to Russia of “high priority” dual-use technology – items with both civilian and military applications – including the types of antennas made by Taoglas [Source: The Irish Times].
Company Responses
Taoglas stated that it “does not, and will not, sell to any entity identified as facilitating the diversion of technology to Russia.” TE Connectivity affirmed its commitment to a policy of not directly or indirectly shipping products to Russia or any sanctioned country, emphasizing that it communicates this policy to distribution partners and expects their compliance [Source: BreakingNews.ie].
Ireland’s Support for Ukraine
Ireland has consistently supported international efforts to address the war in Ukraine, including providing financial and non-lethal material assistance as part of the EU. In December 2025, Ireland pledged an additional €125 million in aid to Ukraine, including approximately €100 million for non-lethal military assistance and €25 million for energy supplies and infrastructure maintenance [Source: Military.com]. Ireland also continues to call for an end to Russia’s invasion at the UN and supports Ukraine’s candidacy for EU membership [Source: Gov.ie].
The ongoing presence of Irish components in Russian weaponry highlights the challenges of enforcing export controls and the complex pathways through which technology can reach unintended recipients.