Ukrainian scientist detained for aiding Russian drone tech
A 72-year-old scientist from Kharkiv has been arrested by the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU). The man is charged with assisting Russia in enhancing Iranian Shahed drones, which are used by the Russian military against Ukraine.
The scientist, acting on behalf of Russia, "developed projects aimed at improving" the Shahed drones, specifically enhancing their engines and launching mechanisms.
The identity of the arrested individual has not been disclosed. It is only known that he hails from Kharkiv in eastern Ukraine. He is accused of transferring technology to a friend, who is the head of a Russian company linked to drone production.
According to the SBU, the suspect communicated with "his Russian associates" electronically, pretending to conduct scientific research in the field of drones. He also involved one of his former students in the project, who is believed to be in Russia, working on drone development for the Russian military.
The authorities arrested the scientist at his home, seizing computer equipment, a phone, and hard drives containing "evidence" of his activities "in support of Russia." If convicted, he could face a 12-year prison sentence.
Russians systematically attack Ukraine with Shaheds
The Russians regularly bombard Ukrainian towns with Shahed drones. According to the forsal.pl portal, last September marked the first month since the beginning of the war during which Russia attacked Ukraine daily using Iranian drones. "Last month, the largest attack included 72 units, with an average of 44 drones daily," the source states, adding that this trend is expected to continue in the coming months.
Estimates suggest that between the 26th and 29th October, the Russians launched 1,165 Iranian drones. "In the last 14 days, an average of 83 drones were used daily," reports forsal.pl.
