A Delhi businessman faces significant prison time in the United States for his role in an illegal export scheme. Sanjay Kaushik, aged fifty-eight, received a sentence of two and a half years in federal prison. He must also undergo three years of supervised release after completing his jail term.
The Fake Civilian Helicopter Deal
United States courts convicted Kaushik for conspiring to export controlled aviation components to Russia. He attempted this illegal transfer under the guise of a civilian helicopter transaction. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Kaushik and his associates purchased an Attitude and Heading Reference System from an Oregon-based supplier.
This navigation and flight control system provides critical data for aircraft operations. U.S. regulations strictly control its export to certain countries, including Russia. Exporting such components requires a license from the Department of Commerce.
How the Scheme Unfolded
Kaushik and his co-conspirators falsely claimed that his Indian company was the end purchaser. They stated the component would serve a civilian helicopter. In reality, the equipment was destined for Russian end users. The AHRS was detained before it could leave the United States.
Authorities arrested Kaushik in Miami, Florida, on October 17, 2024. He has remained in custody since that date. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Court proceedings began in early September 2023. A federal grand jury in Portland charged Kaushik on November 20, 2024. The indictment included three counts of conspiring and attempting to export products illegally.
Kaushik specifically tried to export a navigation and flight control system from Oregon to Russia through India. He also made false statements regarding the export. On October 9, 2025, he pleaded guilty to count one of the indictment.
This count involved conspiring to sell export-controlled aviation components with dual civilian and military applications to Russian end users. The U.S. Justice Department accused him of violating the Export Control Reform Act.
Official Statements on the Case
U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford described the scheme as calculated and profit-driven. He noted it involved repeated transactions, substantial gains, and coordination with foreign co-conspirators.
Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg emphasized the seriousness of the offense. He stated that those who circumvent U.S. export control laws, especially involving technologies with military applications, will face full prosecution.
Gregory R. Nyhus, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, and Trial Attorney Emma Ellenrieder prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Industry and Security in Portland led the investigation with assistance from other agencies.
What This Means for Export Controls
This case highlights the strict enforcement of U.S. export regulations. Technologies with potential military uses face particular scrutiny. Attempts to bypass these controls through false documentation carry severe penalties.
The sentencing serves as a warning to individuals and companies engaged in international trade. Compliance with export laws is essential, especially when dealing with sensitive equipment. The United States remains vigilant in preventing unauthorized transfers of controlled items.
Sanjay Kaushik's case demonstrates the international reach of U.S. justice. Even transactions routed through third countries like India cannot shield violators from prosecution. The coordinated efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies ensured this outcome.
