Components for Yak-130 and Su-27 Aircraft Illegally Exported from Moldova to Russia

A scheme involving the illegal export of components for Russian Yak-130 and Su-27 aircraft was uncovered in Moldova.

The scheme was uncovered and dismantled by officers of the Security and Intelligence Service (SIS) in collaboration with the prosecutor’s office.

The products were supplied to companies linked to the Russian defense industry and those subject to international sanctions.

The total value of the shipments, which are currently being investigated, exceeds 21 million lei (approximately one million euros).

Since 2022, a Moldovan company has been exporting control systems and devices for measuring electrical signals from sensors.

These systems are used in the engines of Yak-130 combat-training aircraft and Su-27 fighter jets.

According to law enforcement officials, the company stated in its customs declarations that it was exporting “waste processing equipment.”

In this way, it attempted to conceal the true purpose of the goods and mislead customs authorities. Furthermore, the company did not obtain the necessary permits to export dual-use goods.

According to investigators, company representatives set up a firm in Russia to conceal the final recipient of the goods.

Through this company, products were imported into Russia and subsequently transferred to an organization linked to the Russian military-industrial complex and subject to international sanctions.

Law enforcement officials also claim that company representatives directly coordinated technical documentation, technical specifications, and test results with the Russian recipient.

On June 24, SIS agents and prosecutors conducted six searches. During the searches, they seized control and measurement system components, computer equipment, cell phones, technical documentation, and contracts that are crucial to the investigation.