Russian authorities recently dismantled a sophisticated espionage network operated by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), targeting sensitive Russian military technology including blueprints for advanced air-defense systems and upgraded Mi-8 helicopters. In a major counter-espionage operation in St. Petersburg, a Russian national was arrested for attempting to smuggle documents related to the development of Mi8AMTShV and Mi8 AMTShV (VA) military transport helicopters and air-defense systems, notably the formidable S-400 Triumf missile system. This ISI mission marks its first known espionage attempt on Russian soil and follows months after Operation Sindoor, where the Indian Air Force effectively employed Russian-made S-400 systems in combat. The stolen technology, if obtained, could have undermined India’s strategic edge, especially as India plans to procure five more S-400 systems to bolster its defense capabilities. This incident exposes Pakistan’s expanding spy efforts beyond its immediate neighborhood, aiming to close the technological gap with India by illicit means. It also raises security alarms for Russia, which may tighten controls on defense technology exports amidst rising geopolitical intelligence tensions. This development comes just ahead of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s scheduled visit to Russia this month.