Russia has significantly increased its import of drones from Thailand, amounting to 125 million dollars in 2025, amidst rising tensions due to its invasion of Ukraine.
In the first eleven months of 2025, Russia imported drones worth 125 million USD from Thailand, which constitutes a staggering 88% of Thailand's total drone exports. This represents an eightfold increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing reliance on Thai supplies following Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Furthermore, during the same period, China supplied Thailand with 186 million USD worth of drones, effectively dominating Thailand's import of these products.
The surge in shipments is notably linked to the geopolitical shift since Russia's aggressive actions in Ukraine. Prior to the invasion, Thailand's drone exports to Russia were minimal, totaling under 1 million dollars, with none actually entering the Russian market. However, the situation has dramatically transformed, positioning Thailand as a crucial hub for drones entering Russia, as it facilitates a rerouting of supplies originating from China.
One of the major players in this drone import business is "Skyhub Technologies," which imported 25 million dollars worth of drones from the Chinese manufacturer "Autel Robotics" in 2025. The shipments include hundreds of models such as the EVO Max 4T, which are officially marketed for civilian use but are reportedly utilized in combat conditions. This growing importation trend raises significant concerns about the implications for regional security and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
