Russia supplies JF-17 engines to Pakistan despite India’s strong protest; why is Moscow doing this? Read here

India views the JF-17 as a potent threat to its security.

New Delhi: Russia has decided to supply Pakistan with RD-93MA engines for its JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. Russia’s decision has drawn attention because it comes despite India’s objections. Russia and India have been staunch defence partners for decades. The two countries share partnerships in military hardware, nuclear energy, and space. This cooperation extends from the S-400 air defence system to the INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier. Despite this, Russia has ignored calls to halt engine supplies to India’s adversary, Pakistan. This move has sparked a diplomatic rift between Russia and India.

RD-93MA provides 93 kilonewtons of thrust

According to an IDRW report, the JF-17 case puts the India-Russia defence partnership, which dates back to the Cold War era, to the test. The 4.5-generation multi-role JF-17, developed by Pakistan and China, is the most powerful aircraft in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). More than 150 units are in service. Its Block III versions are equipped with AESA radar, PL-15 missiles, and helmet-mounted radar. At its core is the Russian engine RD-93MA, an advanced afterburning turbofan that provides 93 kilonewtons of thrust. This engine enhances the jet’s capability for high-altitude operations such as the LoC.

Russia’s monopoly on engines

Pakistan and China manufacture this jet, but Russia has a monopoly on its engines. This makes Russia’s role crucial in the modernisation of the Pakistani Air Force. India has long had concerns about the JF-17. Recently, India formally requested that Russia suspend the supply of RD-93MA components and spare parts. India has escalated its appeal to Russia through diplomatic channels.

$500 million contract

India had hoped that Russia would listen, but the export of the engine was approved. This decision was made under a $500 million contract signed in 2024. Russia has put its relations with India at stake to a certain extent as it seeks to counter Western sanctions by diversifying its arms sales. Pakistan is currently among Russia’s top 10 importers.

Why did Russia make the decision?

Following the conflict with Pakistan in May this year, India specifically requested Russia to halt the supply of RD-93 components. India views the JF-17, capable of a speed of Mach 1.6 and a ferry range of 3,600 km, as a potent threat to its security. Clearly, without a Russian engine, this crucial weapon for Pakistan would be rendered useless. For Russia, this decision reflects its economic imperatives. Facing sanctions, Russia’s deals with Pakistan, worth over $1 billion, have become crucial. However, this might result in eroding its trust with India. India could turn to Western platforms, as has been seen in recent years.