The General Director of Rosoboronexport, Alexander Mikheev, indicated that Rosoboronexport is engaging with Indian partners to explore the joint production of aviation weapons for the Indian Air Force. He outlined these discussions during the Dubai Airshow, highlighting ongoing collaboration with both private and public Indian entities to organize manufacture and integration of air weapons into India’s existing aviation fleet.
Mikheev stressed that the Russia-India collaboration is aligning with broader import controls and localization ambitions. He noted that Indian counterparts maintain strict requirements for imports of defense equipment while encouraging partners to participate in military-technical cooperation under Make In India. The aim is to maximize localization of arms production and facilitate technology transfer to Indian facilities, ensuring compatibility with India’s defense needs and modernization plans.
The Rosoboronexport chief reminded audiences that Russia has historically worked under constraints similar to Make In India since long before its inception, cooperating with Indian enterprises on a range of military systems. He recalled the successful delivery of Su-30MKI aircraft, tanks, other armored vehicles, and ordnance to the Indian defense ministry, underscoring a track record of durable collaboration in strategic sectors.
Mikheev also pointed to a general industry development: a Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifle production facility established in India, with plans for full localization of manufacturing at an agreed stage, reflecting progress toward self-reliance in small arms production within the Indian defense ecosystem.
In related comments, Sergei Chemezov, who previously led Rostec, stated that demand for Russian military equipment abroad has risen, aided by perceptions of performance gains demonstrated in recent security operations. This sentiment reflects continued international interest in Russia’s defense technology portfolio and the potential for expanded partnerships in the face of evolving global security dynamics.
Contextual notes indicate that BRICS discussions have historically considered expanding membership and cooperative capabilities, echoing broader regional approaches to defense and technology collaboration across emerging economies.