Chinese exports of video game consoles to Russia have jumped nearly sevenfold since 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to Chinese customs data, raising concerns that such devices could be diverted for military use.
In 2024, China shipped $95.38 million worth of gaming devices, including controllers, to Russia, according to customs data released earlier this month. A Chinese research firm has said the sharp increase indicates gaming equipment is “becoming increasingly popular in Russia.”
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Earlier this year, Japan, Britain and the European Union banned the export of game controllers to Russia, citing concerns that such devices could be repurposed to operate drones on battlefield in Ukraine.
China has opposed Western sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine and continued to trade with it, despite international concern that Chinese exports may be aiding the Russian war effort.
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If these consoles are just watered down android phones with gamepad sticks and buttons on their sides, I can see how they are relevant for operating a drone. I’m not in the know too though.
I wouldnt put it past companies to make “consoles”, that only have one shitty game to play, but just the perfect layout and components for something like operating drones if retrofitted.