Delhi Man Jailed in Oregon for Plot to Funnel US Aviation Tech to Russia

A businessman from Delhi, India, has been sentenced to federal prison in Portland, Oregon, for a scheme to illegally export controlled aviation components to end users in Russia. Sanjay Kaushik, 58, received a sentence of 30 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release. The sentencing follows his guilty plea to conspiring to sell export-controlled technology with dual civilian and military applications to Russian entities.

The Export Violation Scheme

Court documents reveal the conspiracy began in early September 2023. Kaushik worked with co-conspirators to unlawfully obtain aerospace goods and technology from the United States for Russian buyers. The goods were purchased under false pretenses. Kaushik claimed his Indian company was the final purchaser. The items were actually destined for customers in Russia. This was a clear violation of the Export Control Reform Act. The scheme was described as a calculated, profit-driven operation. It involved coordination with foreign co-conspirators, including sanctioned Russian entities.

The Controlled Component

One key item involved was an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS). The AHRS is a device that provides navigation and flight control data for aircraft. Components like the AHRS are subject to strict controls. They require a license from the Department of Commerce to be exported to certain countries, including Russia. To get the license, Kaushik and his partners falsely claimed the AHRS would be used in a civilian helicopter. The component was ultimately detained before it could be shipped from the United States. The illegal export attempt was routed through India.

US Regulatory Enforcement and Industry Impact

U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, Scott E. Bradford, stated the defendant sought to undermine safeguards critical to U.S. national security. Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg emphasized the seriousness of the crime. He noted that those who circumvent U.S. export control laws, especially involving technologies with military applications, will face full prosecution. This case highlights the U.S. Department of Justice's commitment to enforcing sanctions.

Dual-Use Technology and Sanctions

Export controls are strict for dual-use aviation components. These parts can be used for both civilian and military aircraft. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) led the investigation. The BIS Portland office worked with Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This enforcement action sends a strong signal to the global aviation supply chain. It stresses the need for compliance with US export laws when dealing with aerospace technology.

• Kaushik pleaded guilty on October 9, 2025, to the conspiracy charge.
• The scheme involved obtaining technology from an Oregon-based supplier.
• The components were intended for Russian end users via a false end-user certificate.
• The AHRS is a vital navigation and flight control system.

This prosecution reinforces the strict controls on U.S.-origin technology. It shows the risks for companies and individuals attempting to bypass sanctions. The aviation industry must remain vigilant against illicit procurement networks. Compliance is essential for global trade and national security.

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