European intelligence agencies are warning that Russian intelligence services have significantly increased efforts to steal technology, research, and industrial secrets from companies across Europe and other Western countries as sanctions continue to restrict Moscow’s access to advanced equipment and expertise.
According to senior intelligence officials cited by the Associated Press, Russian operatives are increasingly targeting businesses involved in defense manufacturing, aerospace, advanced machinery, quantum computing, and other sectors that develop technologies with potential military applications. Officials said Moscow is using a combination of cyber espionage, front companies, intermediaries, and covert procurement networks to acquire restricted technology.
European security services believe the effort has intensified as Russia struggles to obtain components and technical expertise affected by years of sanctions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine. Intelligence officials said Russian agencies have become more aggressive in their collection activities and appear willing to take greater operational risks than in previous years.
Christoffer Wedelin, deputy head of operations at Sweden’s Security Service, told the Associated Press that Russian intelligence agencies have a clear understanding of which technologies they need and are dedicating substantial resources to obtaining them. Officials said the primary targets include advanced manufacturing tools, industrial equipment, scientific research, and dual-use technologies that can support both civilian and military programs.
Authorities warn that some companies may be approached by organizations that appear legitimate but are actually acting on behalf of Russian procurement networks. Intelligence agencies said front companies and intermediaries are frequently used to conceal the true destination of restricted technology exports.
The warnings come amid broader concerns about Russian cyber activity in Europe. In a recent speech, GCHQ Director Anne Keast-Butler said Russia is increasing hybrid operations against the UK and Europe, including cyberattacks, sabotage efforts, and attempts to target critical infrastructure and supply chains.
European intelligence officials said cyber espionage remains a key component of Russia’s technology acquisition strategy. Threat actors linked to Russian intelligence agencies have historically targeted defense contractors, research institutions, government agencies, and technology companies to obtain sensitive information that would otherwise be difficult to acquire through legal channels.
Officials are urging technology firms, manufacturers, universities, and research organizations to closely examine business partnerships, export requests, and unusual procurement inquiries. Intelligence services warn that organizations working with advanced technologies may unknowingly become targets of espionage operations aimed at supporting Russia’s military and industrial sectors.