Full Breakdown
British Man Charged with Assisting Russian Intelligence Over Drone-Factory Sabotage Plans
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Joshua Cammidge, a 31-year-old Swindon resident, has been charged under the United Kingdom’s National Security Act 2023 with assisting a foreign intelligence service and preparatory conduct to commit sabotage. Prosecutors say Cammidge communicated with a representative of the GRU Volunteer Corps—a group linked to Russia’s military intelligence—and supplied Google-Maps screenshots and details of four drone-manufacturing sites in Swindon. He also researched a Wi-Fi-jamming device and performed on-site reconnaissance. Cammidge did not enter a plea at his initial appearance in Westminster Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody. The case has been sent to the Old Bailey for a hearing on September 25.
Background & Context
The National Security Act 2023, enacted in July 2023, replaces older Official Secrets Acts and expands powers to prosecute espionage and sabotage. In July 2024 the UK designated the GRU Volunteer Corps as a national-security threat under the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026, making support for the group a criminal offence. Russian intelligence operations, such as the 2018 Salisbury nerve-agent attack, have been cited by UK authorities as part of a broader “hybrid” threat to Europe.
Timeline
- 27 Mar 2024 – 5 Sep 2024: Supplying Google-Maps screenshots of four drone factories.
- 28 Aug 2024 – 3 Sep 2024: Communications with a British national who had travelled to Russia.
- 4 Sep 2024: Arrest by Counter-Terrorism Policing London officers, supported by Wiltshire Police, at a Swindon address.
- 5 Sep 2024: Detention under the National Security Act.
- 10 Sep 2024 (scheduled): Appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
- 25 Sep 2024 (scheduled): Hearing at the Old Bailey.
Data & Statistics
- Four drone-manufacturing sites in Swindon were identified.
- The alleged conduct spans approximately five months.
- Convictions for assisting the GRU Volunteer Corps can carry up to 14 years; the broader offence of assisting a foreign intelligence service carries a maximum of life imprisonment.
Official Statements & Responses
- Frank Ferguson, chief crown prosecutor for the CPS Special Crime and Counter-Terrorism Division, said prosecutors have gathered sufficient evidence and that pursuing the case is in the public interest.
- Security Minister Dan Jarvis praised the police action as a response to a “potential threat” and warned that attempts to undermine UK security will meet the full force of the law.
Why It Matters / Impact
The charges illustrate the UK’s heightened vigilance against foreign-state espionage and sabotage following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Targeting drone manufacturers could disrupt supply chains that support Ukraine’s defence, and the case tests the National Security Act’s capacity to prosecute covert assistance to hostile actors.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Some sources cite Section 3 (assisting a foreign intelligence service) and Section 18 (preparatory conduct) of the National Security Act 2023; others mention only the general offence.
- Sentencing guidance varies, with reports noting either a maximum of 14 years for GRU supporters or a potential life sentence for the broader offence. The final penalty will depend on the specific charges confirmed by the court.
What’s Next
Cammidge is scheduled to appear before the Old Bailey on September 25, where the court will consider the charges and decide whether the case proceeds to trial. Further details will depend on the evidence presented and any additional disclosures from the prosecution or defence.
