Russia Denies Supplying RD-93MA Engines for Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder Jets
Russia has categorically rejected media claims that it is moving forward with supplying RD-93MA engines to Pakistan for use in the JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets.
A source from Russia, speaking to WION, stated, "No confirmation on such a development. It looks illogical for serious and professional observers, who trace big deals ahead between Russia and India. We don’t have such a level of cooperation with Pakistan which would make India feel uncomfortable." The source also mentioned that certain parties seem to be trying to "compromise exceptionally promising and forward-looking cooperation, especially on the eve of high and highest level contacts."
This clarification comes as a prelude to the annual India–Russia summit set for December, during which Russian President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to visit India. Last week at the Valdai Forum, President Putin expressed his enthusiasm, stating he is "looking forward to my trip in early December and I highly await my meeting with my dear friend, our trustworthy partner, PM Modi."
The venue for the annual summit alternates between the two countries, with last year’s meeting taking place in Russia when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited.
In the realm of diplomatic interactions, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar traveled to Moscow earlier in the year to meet with President Putin, underscoring the robust bilateral ties. Additionally, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is expected to visit New Delhi prior to the December summit to finalize the details for the high-level discussions.
Defense, energy, and trade remain the central components of India–Russia relations. Russia continues as India’s largest defense provider and a key partner in technology transfer and collaborative development projects. Noteworthy collaborations like the S-400 Triumf air defense systems and the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile have bolstered India’s defense capabilities, with the latter demonstrating its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor and achieving export success in countries such as the Philippines.
The trade relations between India and Russia have exceeded $60 billion, primarily fueled by energy imports from Russia. Moscow has shown interest in expanding its imports of Indian pharmaceutical and agricultural goods. Both nations are also actively pursuing the establishment of a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).
