FBI: Russian Agent Living as Texas Businessman, Sending Advanced Electronics to Russian Military for 10 Years

A reputed Houston-based agent for the Russian government is accused of leading an operation that clandestinely shipped sensitive cutting-edge microelectronics from the United States to Russia’s military and intelligence agencies.

Alexander Fishenko, who owns Arc Electronics and other companies linked to the charges, was among 11 people accused in an indictment unsealed Wednesday for their alleged roles in a “Russian military procurement network.”

The microelectronics involved are subject to U.S.-government controls, as they could be enlisted for a wide range of military applications, including surveillance, missile guidance and detonation triggers, according to U.S. authorities.

Eight people were arrested in Houston. Three are fugitives believed to be abroad. The ring operated from 2008 until it was derailed by U.S. federal agents making arrests, and searching homes, businesses and bank accounts.

“In this day and time, the ability of foreign countries to illegally acquire sensitive and sophisticated U.S. technology poses a significant threat to both the economic and national security of our nation,” said Stephen L. Morris, head of the FBI’s Houston Division, which led the two-year investigation.

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