Irish Electronic Components Found in Russian Geran-2 Kamikaze Drones

A joint investigation by The Irish Times, the OCCRP, and other partners revealed that electronic components from Irish companies Taoglas and TE Connectivity are being used in Russian Geran-2 kamikaze drones. Ukrainian intelligence identified approximately 300 foreign parts in recovered drones, including sensors and antennas critical for guidance systems. Between January 2024 and March 2025, nearly 10 tonnes of such components reached Russia, with approximately 96% of these items subject to European Union export bans.

Micheál Martin, the Taoiseach of Ireland, announced that the Irish government will pursue the issue, describing the situation as concerning. He noted there is no evidence that the Irish companies acted illegally, as the components were diverted through complex networks of wholesalers and resellers primarily based in China, Taiwan, and Turkey. Taoglas and TE Connectivity have both denied direct sales to Russia or sanctioned entities, asserting their commitment to export controls.

EU sanctions envoy David O'Sullivan stated that tackling the systematic circumvention of sanctions through third countries remains a key priority for the European Union. Ukraine's presidential commissioner for sanctions policy, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, asserted that Russia cannot produce the Geran-2 without Western technologies, as these drones continue to target Ukrainian civilian and energy infrastructure.