Ukrainian engineers have analyzed the component base of the Russian “Gerbera” drone, which mimics Iranian “Shahed” drones to overload Ukrainian air defense systems.
This enemy drone can serve as a kamikaze with a warhead or conduct electronic reconnaissance, including detecting air defense positions and recording strikes from other attack drones. The UAV imitates the Shahed-136 and is widely used by Russia to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses.
It is constructed from simple materials like plywood and foam, making it significantly cheaper than the “Shaheds.” However, the drone contains a variety of foreign-made components.
Analysis of downed samples revealed that Russia manufactures “Gerberas” based on a Chinese prototype using imported components from China. The UAV was developed by the Chinese model aircraft manufacturer Skywalker Technology Co., Ltd., which produces the fuselages and supplies kits to Russia through intermediary companies.
The interference-resistant antenna includes chips from Analog Devices, Texas Instruments (USA), and NXP Semiconductors (Netherlands). The universal flight controller also contains components produced by Texas Instruments, Atmel (USA), STMicroelectronics, U-Blox (Switzerland), NXP Semiconductors (Netherlands), and XLSEMI (China).
For targeting (using the FPV drone principle) and aerial reconnaissance, the “Gerbera” is equipped with a Chinese three-axis gimbal camera Topotek KHY10S90 and a modem Xingkai Tech Mesh Network XK-F358. Its engine, DLE60, is produced by the Chinese company Mile Hao Xiang Technology Co., Ltd.
These companies have already drawn the attention of state institutions for potential sanctions violations. However, through small distributors, they continue exporting electronics to intermediaries in neutral or Russia-friendly countries (e.g., Turkey, Kazakhstan, or the UAE), from where the products are illegally rerouted to Russia.
The U.S. strictly enforces sanctions compliance and has dedicated Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). These guidelines outline how OFAC can respond to detected sanctions violations. Current investigations aim to uncover the supply chain and hold companies or individuals accountable.
