Though Indian officials claim the material has limited civilian use, the U.S. has repeatedly warned that entities supplying Russia’s defense sector risk sanctions.
An Indian company shipped over $1.4 million worth of HMX, a high-grade military explosive, to Russian firms in December 2024, despite U.S. warnings that such transfers could trigger sanctions, a Reuters investigation has revealed.
Indian customs data showed the shipments were made by Ideal Detonators Private Limited to two Russian companies, including Promsintez, which Ukraine says is tied to Russia’s military-industrial complex.
HMX, identified by the U.S. as “critical for Russia’s war effort,” is widely used in missiles and warheads. Though Indian officials claim the material has limited civilian use, the U.S. has repeatedly warned that entities supplying Russia’s defense sector risk sanctions.
India’s foreign ministry said exports of dual-use goods follow international non-proliferation norms.
While the Biden administration previously sanctioned Indian firms over similar ties, the Trump administration has slowed such actions, prompting questions over future penalties.
Neither the Indian supplier nor the Russian recipients responded to requests for comment.