Russia denies supplying engines to Pakistan, reaffirming India ties.
In a significant diplomatic clarification amid rising geopolitical sensitivities, Russia has firmly denied speculations regarding the potential supply of upgraded RD-93MA turbofan engines to Pakistan for the JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets. A senior Russian source emphasized that the rumors lack credibility and do not reflect the current strategic cooperation between Russia and India, especially with a high-level summit scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi, where President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The source suggested that the circulating claims might be politically motivated attempts to undermine the robust ties between Russia and India, which have a long-standing defense partnership highlighted by collaborative projects such as the S-400 air defense system and the BrahMos missile system. As both nations continue to navigate a challenging global landscape, their defense cooperation remains a cornerstone of their relationship, with India emerging as a significant market for Russian defense technology and energy resources. The denial of the RD-93MA supply claims serves not only as a reassurance of the strategic alignment between Moscow and New Delhi but also as a countermeasure against narratives that could disrupt their collaborative efforts. This clarification underscores the resilience of the India-Russia relationship, particularly in the face of evolving international dynamics and the importance of maintaining a united front on defense and economic matters.
