iscover
The Australian Border Force has seized a number of suspected reconnaissance drones allegedly bound for export to Russia.
The drones were among multiple items confiscated by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers as part of a Counter Proliferation investigation into the suspected export of military-grade and military end‑use items to Russia, while searching an Eden Hills residence in Adelaide on 27 September.
This content is available exclusively to Australian Aviation members.
A monthly membership is only $5.99 or save with our annual plans.
- Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
- Access to In Focus reports every month on our website
- Unlimited access to all Australian Aviation digital content
- Access to the Australian Aviation app
- Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
- Access to In Focus reports every month on our website
- Access to our Behind the Lens photo galleries and other exclusive content
- Daily news updates via our email bulletin
- Unlimited access to all Australian Aviation digital content
- Access to the Australian Aviation app
- Australian Aviation quarterly print & digital magazines
- Access to In Focus reports every month on our website
- Access to our Behind the Lens photo galleries and other exclusive content
- Daily news updates via our email bulletin
ABF officers from the Counter Proliferation branch began an investigation after becoming aware of numerous unsuccessful attempts by an Australian national to travel to Russia. ABF officers then executed search warrants at the Eden Hills property on 10 September this year.
During the search, the officer seized more than 30 items, which are now subject to ongoing analysis and assessment against border obligations under the Customs Act 1901 and the Autonomous Sanctions Act 2011.
Other items seized included tactical equipment, notebooks and multiple electronic devices that officers believed were destined for military end-use in Russia. Two individuals were also interviewed during the warrants.
Australia has imposed autonomous sanctions against Russia since 2014, in response to the threat to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, with the sanctions extended in 2015, 2022 and 2023.
ABF Superintendent James Ryan said attempts to export any kind of weapon, military-grade or military-applicable item to a sanctioned country pose a threat to Australia’s national security.
“People considering either the import or export items that are subject to sanctions are warned that our officers are monitoring this kind of activity and will be taking swift action when it is uncovered,” Superintendent Ryan said.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia’s borders is urged to report to Border Watch online. By reporting suspicious activities, members of the public can help protect Australia’s border and the community.
