Kathrine Frich
Siemens said it “strictly complies with international sanctions”
Siemens said it “strictly complies with international sanctions”
Siemens Tech Found in Russian Arms Factory
A Reuters investigation has uncovered how a Russian explosives plant acquired high-precision Siemens equipment despite strict EU and US sanctions.
The Biysk Oleum Plant (BOZ), in southern Siberia, obtained the technology through a complex supply chain involving Chinese intermediaries.
Sanctioned Plant, State Military Ties
BOZ is a state-owned factory under the Sverdlov Plant company, already blacklisted by the West for supporting Russia’s war effort.
The facility produces explosives used in both civilian industries and military applications for the Russian Ministry of Defense.
The October 2022 Deal
In October 2022, BOZ signed a contract with Russian supplier Techpribor.
Public procurement records show Techpribor delivered Siemens automation equipment to modernise BOZ’s production lines, critical upgrades that boost efficiency and output.
China Connection: Huizhou Funn Tek
Customs data revealed Techpribor imported Siemens parts from Huizhou Funn Tek in Guangdong, China.
Matching product codes and descriptions confirmed the shipment included two Siemens power regulators identical to those ordered by BOZ.
Siemens’ Response
Siemens said it “strictly complies with international sanctions” and demands the same of customers.
However, it admitted that some products may reach Russia without the company’s knowledge, pledging to investigate possible breaches in cooperation with authorities.
No Transparency from Russian Side
BOZ, its parent company, and Techpribor declined to respond to Reuters’ questions.
A Huizhou Funn Tek representative claimed their firm doesn’t supply military producers, but acknowledged they are not required to declare end users when purchasing Siemens products.
A Second Chinese Supplier Steps In
Techpribor also sourced Siemens equipment from New Source Automation in Xiamen, China.
Manager Ryan Wu confirmed the sales and said Siemens never asks about the final recipient of goods, leaving a loophole for sanctioned entities.
Why These Components Matter
Experts say such high-precision parts are irreplaceable in advanced manufacturing, especially for missiles, drones, and tank refurbishment.
Automation not only boosts production speed but also eases the strain of labor shortages in Russia’s military industry.
