Rosoboronexport’s general manager, Alexander Mikheev, described a pause in formal talks with international partners within the framework of military-technical cooperation. He attributed this slowdown to the current sanctions climate, a reality he conveyed through sources at TASS. The message is clear: sanctions create opacity around negotiations, and the company has chosen a cautious path, preferring to refrain from public discussions while ongoing relations are assessed and adjusted. Yet, he emphasized that demand for Russian weapons remains robust and the credibility of these offerings continues to hold ground on the global stage. The central aim of Rosoboronexport during these discussions is to preserve existing partnerships, to exchange relevant updates, and to highlight collaboration opportunities for interested potential allies.
Leadership within Rosoboronexport has underscored a strategic invitation to Middle Eastern nations to join a collaborative effort focused on joint development and production of defense capabilities. This initiative includes a bid to advance fifth generation light fighter technology under the Checkmate program, signaling a push toward cutting-edge aircraft innovation and closer industrial alignment with regional partners.
According to Mikheev, other promising avenues for military-technical cooperation with regional partners include joint development and production of air defense systems, naval platforms, and weapons for ground forces. The broader objective is to widen regional security and industrial cooperation, extending beyond the sale of equipment to encompass technology transfer, training, and the establishment of local manufacturing capabilities. Such an approach envisions benefits that extend to allied states across North America and other regions, reinforcing an integrated ecosystem that supports sustainable defense capabilities over time.