Russia Snubs India, Sends Jet Engines to Pakistan

Shumaila Aslam

Bureau Chief Pakistan

Russia has rejected India’s request to block defense sales and will

deliver advanced RD-93MA engines for Pakistan’s JF-17 Block III fighter jets, co-developed with China.

India, a traditional ally of Moscow, had lobbied against the deal citing tensions with Islamabad. However,

the Kremlin ignored New Delhi’s appeal, opting to proceed with the agreement.

The RD-93MA engines, produced by Russia’s United Engine Corporation, will power Pakistan’s most advanced combat aircraft.

Islamabad maintains the upgraded JF-17s can compete with India’s Rafale and Su-30MKI jets.

The move is seen as a diplomatic setback for India and signals Moscow’s intent

to balance relations with both South Asian rivals, despite decades of strategic partnership with New Delhi.

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