Senior European intelligence officials say Russian intelligence agencies are becoming more aggressive in seeking Western technology and defense-related know-how as international sanctions and the war in Ukraine restrict Moscow’s access to equipment and research. Officials report that sanctions over the past four years have reduced Russia’s ability to buy machinery, factory equipment, research outputs, and other dual-use technologies from Europe. They add that strains on key industries and mounting financial pressure further limit legitimate procurement.
According to the officials, Russian operations use methods including creating front or fake companies, recruiting intermediaries, and deploying cyber spies and hackers to collect sensitive information. The agencies focus on advanced machine tools, factory equipment, and high-end research, as well as technology that can support defense needs or broader industrial capabilities. Some reporting also notes that sanctioned computer technology and software updates for machine tools are among the targets.
Officials also say information gathered through these activities could be used not only for technological development but also for potential attacks on critical infrastructure. The accounts describe coordinated efforts rather than isolated cases, with officials characterizing the effort as targeted and well resourced.
