An Indian man has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for illegally exporting aviation components to Russia. Sanjay Kaushik, who was arrested in Florida in 2024, has remained in custody since his arrest. In 2025, he pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell export-controlled aviation parts to buyers in Russia.
A Calculated Business Deal
The judge emphasized that this was not a simple mistake. It was a well-calculated business deal where Kaushik prioritized personal profit over US national security and foreign policy interests. US Attorney for the District of Oregon, Scott E Bradford, stated clearly that this was a deliberate scheme.
"This was no lapse in judgment. It was a calculated, profit-driven scheme involving repeated transactions, substantial gains, and coordination with foreign co-conspirators, including sanctioned Russian entities," said Bradford. "This defendant sought, on multiple occasions, to undermine safeguards critical to US national security and foreign policy for his own personal gain."
The Scheme Unfolds
Beginning in early September 2023, Kaushik conspired with others to unlawfully obtain aerospace goods and technology from the United States. These items were intended for end users in Russia. The goods were purchased under false pretenses, with Kaushik claiming they would be supplied to his Indian company. In reality, they were destined for Russian buyers.
Some of these components were specifically barred from export to Russia without a government license. Kaushik and his co-conspirators exported these restricted items anyway.
Key Component: The AHRS Device
One significant item involved was an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS). This device provides crucial navigation and flight control data for aircraft. Exporting an AHRS to certain countries, including Russia, requires a license from the Department of Commerce.
Kaushik and his aides did obtain a license, but they did so fraudulently. They falsely claimed the component was going to be exported to India for use in a civilian helicopter. According to a DOJ report, "Kaushik and his co-conspirators obtained the AHRS – which was ultimately detained before it was exported from the United States – on behalf of and with the intention of shipping it, through India, to a customer in Russia."
Violation of US Security
The case highlights a serious breach of US export controls designed to protect national security. By routing components through India to Russia, Kaushik attempted to circumvent these vital safeguards. His actions demonstrate a clear disregard for international trade regulations and security protocols.
The sentencing sends a strong message about the consequences of such illegal activities. It underscores the US government's commitment to enforcing export laws and preventing sensitive technology from reaching unauthorized destinations.
