News of Russia supplying RD-93MA engines for JF-17 fighter jets to Pakistan has sparked a political debate in India. The opposition has criticized the government, while Russia has denied these reports. Amidst India-Russia defense relations, this issue remains a concern for security and regional balance.
Reports that Russia might provide RD-93MA engines for JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to Pakistan have stirred a political storm in India. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized the government, while Russia has not yet issued any official confirmation. This issue is heightening concerns about security and regional balance amidst India's and Russia's decades-old defense ties. The rapid increase in Pakistan's defense imports and the technology of the JF-17 Block III are making this dispute even more sensitive.
What is the full story?
Media reports claim that despite India's objections, Russia might supply RD-93MA engines to Pakistan. However, Russia has not officially confirmed this claim so far. According to reports, Pakistan has been using this engine in its JF-17 Thunder fighter jets for a long time. The JF-17 is a joint project between China and Pakistan, which has consistently used Russia's RD-93MA engines. China has previously purchased engines from Russia and supplied them to Pakistan.
Deep India-Russia Relations
India and Russia have maintained deep ties in several sectors, including defense, space, and nuclear energy. Both countries have also planned an annual summit in December, where Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit New Delhi. Meanwhile, India is rapidly moving towards self-reliance in the defense sector under the “Make in India” initiative.
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia's share in India's total defense equipment imports during 2020–24 was 36%. This is significantly lower compared to 55% in 2015-19 and 72% in 2010-14. During the same period, India's total defense imports also registered a decline of 9.3%.
Pakistan's Defense Deals
Pakistan's defense imports have seen a surge in recent years. Between 2015–19 and 2020–24, Pakistan's total defense imports increased by 61%. According to SIPRI, during this period, Pakistan's total defense imports accounted for a 4.6% share, with 81% of its weapons originating from China. The JF-17 Block III version, equipped with the RD-93MA engine and PL-15 missiles, could enhance the strength of the Pakistan Air Force.
This issue has stirred a political storm in India. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had objected to this deal in June 2025, yet the process is moving forward. Ramesh cited this issue as an example of “Operation Sindoor” and also raised questions about the use of JF-17.
Russia-Pak Deal: What will be the impact on India's security?
Russian defense expert Pyotr Topichkanov believes that this deal will not pose a significant new challenge for India. India has already observed the performance of the JF-17. Consequently, it will be relatively easier for India to counter it. Experts also state that this deal holds strategic importance for enhancing the capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force.
Although Russia has not yet officially confirmed it, political and strategic discussions are continuously intensifying. India will need to take steps in its security strategy, considering the potential impacts of this deal. Furthermore, this new development could also affect long-term defense cooperation and technological partnership between India and Russia.
