Ukrainian military intelligence found an Nvidia Jetson Orin module inside the wreckage of a Russian S-71 Monochrome cruise missile. The Defense Ministry Intelligence Directorate reported the finding this week. The S-71M is an air-launched weapon with autonomous capabilities. It can search for and engage targets using optical sensors and onboard computing.
GUR stated that the use of this component may indicate the use of artificial intelligence technologies in the missile. Information on the S-71M suggests it can operate with user oversight or entirely autonomously. Photos from GUR show a scorched Nvidia chip with the identifier TE980M-A1 stamped on its surface. This indicates a Jetson Orin NX 16GB unit released by Nvidia in early 2023.
Nvidia closed its offices in Russia in 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine. This closure occurred prior to the introduction of the TE980M-A1. The hardware must have reached Russian hands through another channel after direct sales stopped. GUR stated that the recovered hardware proves Russian tech manufacturing still is not up to snuff.
Nvidia stated that Orin modules are consumer grade and sold for diverse purposes, with military applications excluded from their intended design. A spokesperson told The Register that the chips are not supposed to be available in Russia. The company noted that pre-owned Jetsons are available through many reseller channels. Nvidia stated that it cannot track products after they are sold, but will take appropriate action if it determines any customer is violating US export controls.
US export controls restrict advanced chip shipments to Russia and China. GUR disclosures also document Chinese-made electronics in Russian weapons. The exact path of the Nvidia component into Russia remains unclear.
GUR stated that its evidence shows current export control regimes are not working. The agency called for increased sanctions pressure and coordination of efforts. Kyiv wants tighter controls to keep foreign silicon out of Moscow weapons.
