In December 2024, India exported a powerful explosive material called HMX—also known as octogen—to Russia. The shipment was worth around $1.4 million, according to Indian customs data reviewed by international news sources.
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HMX is not just any chemical compound. It is used in making warheads for missiles and torpedoes, as well as in rocket motors. The United States considers this material vital for any advanced military system. That’s why the recent shipment from India to Russia is drawing serious attention.
One of the Russian recipients was a company named Promsintez. It is located in the Samara region of Russia and has ties to the military sector. Ukraine’s intelligence agency has linked this company to weapons manufacturing. In April 2025, the Promsintez facility was hit by a drone strike, indicating its importance in the war effort.
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This shipment marks the first time such explosive materials have been publicly reported as being exported from India to Russia since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022. Indian company Ideal Detonators Private Limited was the one that sent two separate consignments. One shipment was valued at $405,000, while the other exceeded $1 million. Both ended up at Russian military-linked sites, including High Technology Initiation Systems.
US Labels HMX “Critical,” Warns India of Possible Sanctions
The United States Department of Defense officially classifies HMX as a “critical material” necessary for high-level military use. According to the US government, any nation supplying such materials to Russia may face economic penalties.
American authorities, including the Treasury Department, have issued multiple warnings about sanctions for those helping Russia obtain military-grade supplies. Although Washington has not commented on these specific shipments, officials have confirmed that they are aware of the risks.
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HMX is usually used for military systems, but some Indian officials argue it has civilian applications as well. India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that all dual-use items like HMX are exported under strict legal controls. They insist that all such shipments comply with global regulations.
Despite growing cooperation with the United States, India has maintained a strong economic relationship with Russia. One key part of this relationship is India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. This has raised concern in Western countries, especially the US. In fact, the American government recently announced a proposal for a 100% tariff on countries that buy oil from Russia.
The US has adopted different policies under different leaders. During past administrations, enforcement of sanctions slowed down. Now, it remains uncertain whether these new reports will lead to any direct action against Indian firms.
India-Russia Trade Under Scrutiny
India’s trade ties with Russia have expanded since the Ukraine war began. Apart from oil, India has continued to engage in other business with Russian entities. The two shipments of HMX are just the latest example.
Ukrainian authorities have raised red flags about this trade. They noted that the Russian company Promsintez had appeared in earlier investigations related to deals with Indian firms. According to Ukraine, these transactions help Russia bypass global restrictions and continue building up its military strength.
The two Russian firms that received the explosives—Promsintez and High Technology Initiation Systems—are located in the Samara region. This area is known for hosting defense-related production plants. So far, neither the Indian company nor the Russian recipients have commented on the shipment.
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According to reports from Ukraine, there have been multiple efforts to sidestep global sanctions, and India is often involved. This has affected how Ukrainians view India. In recent surveys, Ukraine has listed India alongside countries like China, Iran, and North Korea—labeling them as unfriendly nations.
Meanwhile, US officials continue to monitor such trade deals. They recognize India as an important global partner but have emphasized the risks of engaging in trade that supports Russia’s military.
India’s stance remains that all exports of dual-use items follow international standards. Still, this explosive shipment has placed a spotlight on India’s business dealings during a time of war and global conflict.