The Russian government has accused the Ukrainian government of using Australian-made drones to attack Russian territories, thus dragging Australia into the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. In an online post, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova expressed her belief that Australian drones were being used to strike targets in Russia and criticized the Australian government for contributing to the anti-Russian campaign led by Washington while hiding Australia’s increasing involvement in the conflict.
These accusations and comments from the Russian Foreign Affairs spokesperson came after Ukrainian Ambassador to Australia Vasyl Myroshnychenko claimed that Australian cardboard drones had been used in an attack on Russia’s Kursk airport, a crucial launching point for attacks on Ukraine. Mr. Myroshnychenko argued that the airport was a legitimate target for Ukraine’s armed forces, as Russia used it to launch military operations and send missiles into Ukraine.
The drones in question are produced by the Australian company SYPAQ and are made from waxed cardboard and rubber. They were exported to Ukraine in flat packs as part of a $33 million donation of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) announced by the Australian government in February. These drones were intended for reconnaissance aid on the battlefield for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, it appears that they may have been repurposed as attack capabilities.
Australia has been one of the largest providers of military aid to Ukraine outside of NATO countries, committing a total of $890 million. This aid includes $710 million in military assistance, such as Uncrewed Aerial Systems, vehicles, artillery, and personal equipment. Australia has also collaborated with France in providing artillery ammunition and deployed an air force aircraft for several months.
The involvement of Australian-made drones in the conflict has intensified tensions and further blurred the lines between the various parties involved.