Moscow-based defence analysts say the engine deal reveals Pakistan’s dependence on Russia and helps India understand its adversary’s capabilities.
Russia’s Engine Sale to Pakistan: A Strategic Advantage for India?
Top Russian defence experts have dismissed recent political criticism in India regarding the reported supply of RD-93 engines to Pakistan for use in JF-17 fighter jets, arguing the move may actually work in India’s strategic favor.
Speaking to PTI, Pyotr Topychkanov, a respected researcher at Moscow’s Primakov Institute, said:
“If reports about Russia providing engines for the JF-17 are correct, it actually benefits India in two ways.”
Why Experts Say It Helps India
According to Topychkanov, the reported supply of RD-93 engines to Pakistan:
- Shows China’s Dependence on Russia:
Pakistan and China still rely on Russian engines, indicating that their indigenous alternatives are inadequate. - Provides Familiarity for Indian Forces:
Since India already uses related RD-33 engines (licensed with transfer of technology), and has observed JF-17 deployment during Operation Sindoor (May 2025), it gives the Indian Air Force operational insight into Pakistan’s aircraft.
“The aircraft is now predictable to India,” Topychkanov added.
Engine Background: RD-93 vs RD-33
| Feature | RD-93 (Pakistan/China) | RD-33 (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Thrust | Higher than RD-33 | Lower |
| Service Life | ~2,200 hours | ~4,000 hours |
| Technology Transfer | No ToT | Licensed ToT |
| Built By | Klimov Plant, Russia | HAL (India, under license) |
The RD-93 is a modified version of the RD-33 used in Indian MiG-29s. While it has slightly higher thrust, it has significantly shorter lifespan and no transfer of technology to Pakistan.
A Trilateral Agreement: Russia, China & Pakistan
Under a trilateral agreement dating back to the early 2000s, Russia supplies RD-93 engines to China, which integrates them into JF-17 jets for Pakistan.
- Pakistan now seeks a modified version of the engine, but experts say it’s not yet developed.
- No official confirmation of the latest sale has been made by any government.
Political Reactions in India
Opposition Criticism
On Saturday, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned why Russia, once India’s most reliable ally, is now supplying military hardware to Pakistan.
BJP Response
The BJP dismissed the reports as “reckless information warfare” and accused Congress of siding with the enemy:
“Instead of standing with India, Congress is amplifying enemy narratives,” said a BJP spokesperson.
Strategic Takeaways
- Despite being allies, Russia continues to balance relations with China and Pakistan, primarily for commercial defense exports.
- The lack of indigenous alternatives for the RD-93 engine highlights Pakistan’s technological limitations.
- India’s existing experience with RD-33 engines offers it an edge in understanding and countering the JF-17.
