Irish-Made Drone Part Found on Russian UAV in Ukraine
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed the Irish Government is probing reports that a Russian drone destroyed in Ukraine contained a part stamped “Made in Ireland.” The bombshell emerged during Varadkar’s surprise visit to Kyiv, where he met President Volodymyr Zelensky.
How Did an Irish Part End Up on a Russian Drone?
The discovery came after a Ukrainian journalist asked Varadkar about a component from a Shahed drone shot down over Mykolaiv. The drone, supplied by Iran, reportedly included a carburettor labelled “Made by Tillotson” – an American firm with a factory in Tralee, County Kerry.
Varadkar said the Government takes the issue seriously but stressed no Irish company is believed to have broken sanctions. However, concerns remain about third-party firms potentially circumventing EU restrictions.
Sanctions & Investigations Underway
It’s unclear if the “Made in Ireland” label is genuine. The drone photo was posted on Twitter by Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, noting other parts came from Western and Asian nations.
Former foreign minister Charlie Flanagan called the incident “a matter of some concern.” Under EU sanctions, selling or exporting drone engines and components that aid Russia’s military is banned.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment confirmed it’s investigating, highlighting Ireland’s strict export controls comply with EU and international laws. A spokesperson said any violation is taken “very seriously.”
Collaboration to Stop Irish Tech Fueling Conflict
The Dept is working with Conflict Armament Research, an EU-backed group, to track Irish-made parts and prevent them from reaching conflict zones — whether by accident or design. The probe continues as officials race to uncover the full story behind the mysterious Irish component on a Russian weapon.
