The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly countered the Indian National Congress's (INC) concerns regarding the reported supply of Russian RD-93MA engines to Pakistan for its JF-17 fighter jets. The BJP has accused the Congress of siding with the "enemy" and engaging in "reckless information warfare" by raising the issue on social media.

The controversy arose after Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned the government's silence on reports that Russia, a long-time strategic ally of India, was providing military support to Pakistan by supplying engines for the Chinese-made JF-17 fighter jets. Ramesh described the situation as a failure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "personalised brand of diplomacy," which he claimed prioritizes image-building over India's strategic interests. He also pointed out that these engines would power the Block III variant of the JF-17, which is equipped with PL-15 missiles, believed to have been used against India during Operation Sindoor. Ramesh also criticized the Modi government for failing to diplomatically isolate Pakistan.

In response, the BJP's IT department head, Amit Malviya, cited a different media report stating that Russia has dismissed claims of Moscow proceeding with the supply of RD-93MA engines to Pakistan for integration into the JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets. Malviya accused Ramesh of relying on a story from a "little-known website notorious for pushing pro-Pakistan propaganda," emphasizing the lack of official confirmation or credible sources.

The reported deal involves the RD-93MA engine, manufactured by Russia's United Engine Corporation (UEC)-Klimov, which powers the Block III variant of Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The JF-17, co-developed by Pakistan and China, is a key component of the Pakistan Air Force.

This is not the first time that India has voiced concerns over Russia's military cooperation with Pakistan. Despite India's objections, Russia has maintained its position, citing commercial interests and the need to diversify its arms sales, especially in light of Western sanctions. Some reports suggest that the engine supplies are not a new development, but rather a continuation of existing arrangements where China acts as an intermediary.

Russia has been a long-standing and trusted strategic partner of India, with deep cooperation in military hardware, nuclear energy, and space programs. However, Russia has also been strengthening its ties with China, including in defense, energy, and aerospace sectors. This balancing act has led to some unease in New Delhi, particularly regarding defense cooperation with Pakistan. Despite these concerns, defense cooperation remains a strong pillar of the India-Russia relationship. Russia continues to be India's largest defense supplier and a critical source of jointly developed military technology.

The controversy highlights the complexities of India's relationship with Russia, as well as the shifting dynamics in the region. While India and Russia share a long history of strategic partnership, Russia's growing ties with Pakistan and China present a challenge for Indian diplomacy.