Overview
- Multiple Indian outlets reported that Russia would supply RD-93MA engines for Pakistan’s Chinese-made JF-17 Block III fighters.
- An unnamed Russian source quoted by WION/News18 said there was no confirmation of any such supply and called the claim illogical given upcoming India–Russia engagements.
- Congress leader Jairam Ramesh demanded an explanation from the government, citing reports of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s June intervention and security concerns tied to Operation Sindoor.
- The BJP accused the opposition of pushing unverified claims, labeling the episode reckless information warfare and noting the absence of official word from Moscow.
- Russian defence experts told PTI that, if a sale did occur, it could benefit India by highlighting China–Pakistan reliance on Russian engines and making the JF-17’s performance more predictable to Indian planners.