China supplies 85% of the tires used in Russian fighters, reveals Ukrainian report (X @militarnyi / CNA)
Russia’s dependence on Chinese tires for combat aircraft has once again attracted attention after new data was released by the Economic Security Council of Ukraine (ESC).
According to the report, China provides 85% of the tires used by Su-34 and Su-35C fighter jets, in addition to over $60 million in related materials just in 2024. Among the supplies sent are aramid fibers, rubber, and finished tires, all essential to keep the Russian air fleet operational.
In addition to tires, the study reveals that Russian military factories extensively use Chinese microelectronic components and CNC machines for the production and maintenance of equipment. Only five of the 29 companies involved in these supplies are under U.S. sanctions, showing that control over exports remains weakened. European Union countries also contributed nearly 2,000 tons of rubber during the same period.
Experts warn that despite international sanctions, strategic materials continue to flow into the Russian military-industrial complex via China and certain European jurisdictions. The ESC states that the heavy reliance on imported aviation tires creates potential pressure points on the operational capacity of Russian fighter jets. Recent reports also indicate that China is supplying engines for Shahed drones used by Russia.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @militarnyi / CNA | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
