China deepens military research ties with Russia amid Ukraine conflict

In recent years, particularly since 2019, China has seen a marked increase in research partnerships between its defense-linked universities and Russian institutions. This shift has been significantly spurred by the geopolitical landscape created by Western sanctions following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute has reported that all 68 Chinese universities categorized under the defense sector have either deepened or dramatically deepened their collaborations with Russia, enhancing mutual access to advanced technologies and military expertise. The collaboration is particularly focused on areas such as aeronautics and drone technology, where both nations have capacity for substantial advancements. Additionally, the significance of this collaboration comes in light of the strategic goal for both nations to offset ongoing Western restrictions on academic and technological exchange. Chinese institutions, like the Harbin Institute of Technology and Beihang University, epitomize this shift towards joint research efforts aimed at bolstering military prowess and capabilities. The academic links have been established to counteract the limitations imposed on both countries due to their geopolitical actions and subsequent sanctions. For instance, Beihang University’s partnership with the Moscow Aviation Institute since 2017 has focused on transforming China's aircraft engine capabilities, highlighting the urgency behind these mutual collaborations. As the conflict in Ukraine endures, Russia's access to Chinese innovations in military technology could provide critical advantages. Beijing will simultaneously benefit from involvement in Russian advancements in specific sectors, such as aircraft engine production. The interplay of these relationships illustrates the widening scope of cooperation in defense technology amid increased pressures from Western nations attempting to limit such collaborations. As detailed by scholars and analysts, the push against Western control has profoundly shaped the landscape of academic and military research across both nations. Overall, the relationship between Chinese and Russian research institutions has evolved into a robust partnership that transcends traditional barriers, presenting both nations with opportunities to enhance their respective military capabilities. Furthermore, with the ongoing restrictions imposed by the United States and its allies on both China and Russia, this strategic partnership is likely to strengthen as both countries face an increasingly isolated path in the global research landscape.