Russia has at least one old chip-making machine made by Dutch manufacturer ASML to make chips to use in drones, tanks and rockets, an investigation by Trouw has shown.

Microchips are still ending up in Russia despite the sanctions but, Trouw found, chips found in Russian fighter drones shot down in Ukraine are most likely made using an ASML machine.

The machine acquired by Russia dates from the late 90s and, according to ASML, no spare parts have been delivered since sanctions were issued against Russia in 2022. The machine is modern enough to be able to produce chips for weaponry, experts have said.

However, some 170 spare parts for the machine have entered the country via networks of traders, with Chinese traders playing a major role, Trouw said.

Exports of ASML chip-making technology to China have been strictly controlled since  September last year under new rules brought in to address security concerns.

All manufacturers of semiconductors have to apply for an export licence for all sales of specified models, allowing the government to monitor exports and intervene if necessary.