Sat Nov 23 05:23:02 UTC 2024: ## Indian National Arrested in US for Illegally Supplying Aerospace Parts to Russia

**Washington, Nov 23, 2024** – Sanjay Kaushik, a 57-year-old Indian national and managing partner of Arezo Aviation, was arrested in Miami on October 17th and is currently detained in Oregon. He faces charges of violating U.S. export control laws by procuring aerospace components for Russian entities.

According to the Department of Justice, Kaushik, in collaboration with his Austrian associate Markus Kaltenegger, allegedly obtained U.S.-origin aviation goods without the necessary licenses. These goods were then allegedly re-exported to Russia, including to entities sanctioned by the U.S. for supplying the Russian government and military.

Prosecutors claim Kaushik and Kaltenegger used falsified documentation to mislead U.S. suppliers, claiming the components were for use in India. Evidence presented includes emails showing Kaushik’s awareness of sanctions yet continued dealings with Russian clients, and financial records detailing over $126,000 transferred to Kaltenegger after receiving payments from a Russian entity, PDS AVIA LLC. One specific instance cited involves the purchase and resale of an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS) at more than double the original price. Kaushik is also accused of continuing to supply Aircompany North-West LLC, despite a prior warning from U.S. authorities.

If convicted, Kaushik faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine per count. A U.S. Magistrate Judge has ordered him to remain in custody, citing a flight risk. The alleged scheme is considered a significant violation of U.S. export laws, involving components crucial to aviation and defense industries.

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