China's Covert Cyber Attacks on Russia Amid Tightening Ties
Despite public declarations of a "no limits" partnership, China-backed hacking groups have launched persistent cyberattacks targeting Russian government agencies and corporations since the onset of the Ukraine war. This paradox highlights an undercurrent of mistrust beneath the friendly rhetoric between the two nations.
Why Is China Targeting Its Ally?
Analysts suggest China's motivation stems from its desire to glean military insights, especially since it faces criticism for lacking battlefield experience compared to Russia. By infiltrating Russian networks, Beijing appears to seek intelligence on Moscow's operations in Ukraine, advancements in defense technologies, and broader geopolitical moves.
One Taiwan-based cybersecurity firm identified attacks aimed at a prominent Russian engineering organization to uncover sensitive information about nuclear submarine projects. These spying attempts reflect China's intent to bolster its own military capabilities by leveraging Russia's combat experience.
Deep-Rooted Mistrust Between Moscow and Beijing
Confidential Russian security documents, reportedly from the domestic counterintelligence agency, paint China not as a partner but as a potential "enemy" pursuing defense secrets aggressively. The classified material underscores Beijing’s systematic efforts to learn from Russia's military engagements while maintaining a veil of alliance publicly.
High-Profile Targets and Sophisticated Tools
Even Rostec, Russia’s giant state-backed defense conglomerate, has fallen victim to cyber intrusions linked to China. Attackers aimed to extract classified information related to satellite communications, radar technologies, and electronic warfare capabilities. Cybersecurity experts note that China-backed groups employ advanced malware, such as the proprietary Deed RAT, to breach critical Russian sectors like aerospace and private security — tools not readily available on the dark web, highlighting state sponsorship.
A Pattern Predating the Ukraine Conflict
The cyber-offensive is not a recent development. Beijing's hackers reportedly targeted Russian submarine designers as early as 2021. These sustained efforts signify a long-term strategy to penetrate Russian defense industries despite the nations' professed friendship.
Implications for International Relations
This clandestine digital conflict illustrates the complexities and fragilities within the Russia-China alliance. As both countries navigate their geopolitical stakes — with China’s rising global ambitions and Russia’s military struggles in Ukraine — the cyber dimension reveals underlying suspicions and strategic maneuvering.
Key Takeaways:
- China conducts covert cyberattacks on Russian military and defense targets despite public alliances.
- These operations aim to acquire intelligence on Russia’s military tactics and technology.
- Russian counterintelligence documents categorize China as an adversary in the digital realm.
- Advanced malware like Deed RAT enables these sophisticated intrusions.
- Cyber conflict between the two nations predates the Ukraine war, indicating deeper mistrust.
