An Indian national has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for orchestrating a scheme to illegally export sensitive U.S. aviation technology to Russia through his Delhi-based company.
Sanjay Kaushik, 58, pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell dual-use aircraft components that require export licenses when shipped to Russia, where they could potentially support military operations.
According to court documents, Kaushik began his scheme in September 2023, working with co-conspirators to obtain aerospace goods from U.S. suppliers. He falsely claimed the components would remain with his Indian company for civilian use.
In one transaction, Kaushik attempted to purchase an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) from an Oregon supplier. The navigation device provides critical flight-control data to the aircraft.
To obtain the required export license, Kaushik’s team lied to Commerce Department officials. They claimed the AHRS would be installed in a civilian helicopter in India, when it was actually destined for a Russian customer.
Authorities intercepted the AHRS before it left the United States. The device requires special licensing for export to Russia due to its potential military applications.
“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 U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford.
Federal agents arrested Kaushik in Miami on October 17, 2024. He remained in custody until Thursday’s sentencing in Portland, Oregon.
A federal grand jury indicted him in November 2024 on three counts. These included conspiracy to violate export controls, attempted illegal export, and making false statements.
Kaushik pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge in October 2025. Along with his prison term, he faces three years of supervised release.
“Those who scheme to circumvent U.S. export control laws — especially when it involves technologies with military applications — will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg.
The case involved multiple federal agencies. The Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security led the investigation, with assistance from Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection.
Export control violations have become a priority for federal prosecutors. The Justice Department has intensified enforcement efforts amid Russia’s efforts to establish alternative supply chains for restricted technology.
