Last year, Russia ramped up its fiber optic purchases from China, with the prices for Russian buyers reportedly rising two and a half to four times according to the Russian newspaper "Vedomosti." The report highlights that Russia is no longer producing fiber optics domestically, as its sole production facility in Saransk, known for manufacturing optical fibers, ceased operations following several drone attacks in April and May of the previous year. Consequently, Russia now relies entirely on imports from China to meet its fiber optic needs.

Analysts from Beijing's University of Posts and Telecommunications point out that in the previous year, Russia accounted for 10.5% of the total global production of optical fiber, a significant increase from previous years where its share was below 1%. This surge translates into nearly 60 million kilometers of optical fiber consumed in Russia last year alone. The shift in fiber optic procurement highlights the increasing reliance on Chinese technology and products amid Russia's dwindling domestic production capabilities, raising questions about the sustainability and strategic implications of such dependency.

Furthermore, the article notes that both Russia and Ukraine began utilizing fiber optics in FPV drones actively in the past year, indicating a growing interest in advanced technology for unmanned aerial systems. This trend might have strategic implications for military engagements in the region, as both countries seek to enhance their drone capabilities with improved communication and data transfer technologies. The reliance on foreign imports for key technology sectors could pose long-term challenges for Russia's telecommunications infrastructure, especially in the context of geopolitical tensions.