Indian Firm Sent Explosives to Russia Despite U.S. Warnings, Customs Data Reveals

In a revelation that could strain international relations, an Indian company exported over $1.4 million worth of high-grade explosives to Russia, despite repeated warnings from the United States against aiding Moscow’s war efforts in Ukraine.

The chemical exported was HMX (also known as octogen) — a potent military-grade explosive used in missile warheads, rocket motors, torpedoes, and plastic-bonded explosives.

According to Indian customs records reviewed by Reuters, the shipments were made in December 2023 to two Russian entities: Promsintez and High Technology Initiation Systems (HTIS).

🔍 Shipment Details and Recipients
The exports originated from Ideal Detonators Private Limited, based in Telangana, India.

The first shipment, valued at ~$1 million, was delivered to Promsintez, a Russian explosives manufacturer with alleged military ties.

The second shipment, worth $405,200, went to HTIS, a firm with listed interests in civil mining and blasting but indirect links to Maxam, a Spanish explosives company.

Both shipments were unloaded in St. Petersburg, raising further questions about their end use.

While HMX has limited civilian applications, it is widely recognized for its strategic military value.

The U.S. government has classified HMX as a critical material for Russia’s defense production. Washington has explicitly warned that any company or financial institution facilitating its supply could face sanctions.

India’s foreign ministry responded that all dual-use exports are regulated through a robust legal and international non-proliferation framework.

U.S.–India Tensions Brewing?

The U.S. State Department reiterated its position: countries supporting Russia’s defense industry risk economic and diplomatic consequences.

This episode follows a series of warnings, including President Trump’s July 2024 statement threatening 100% tariffs on nations importing Russian oil. It reflects a growing rift in global alignment over the Russia–Ukraine conflict, where India’s neutral trade policies are now being scrutinized under new pressure.