On the eve of the international Aero India 2023 air show, Dmitry Shugaev, who leads the Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation, spoke about a noticeable shift in foreign interest driven by the deployment of Russian weapons in real world operations. He explained that partnerships outside Russia have been increasingly keen to observe how these systems perform when embedded in actual theater conditions, a factor that has elevated the credibility of Russian military products among potential buyers in multiple regions. The emphasis, he noted, is on tangible capabilities demonstrated under challenging circumstances, which helps foreign experts and governments assess the practical value of Russian platforms in their own security contexts.
Shugaev underscored that the Asian market holds significant promise for expanded collaboration with the Russian Federation. He pointed to ongoing inquiries, interest in long-term maintenance partnerships, and a growing willingness among Asian buyers to engage in integrated procurement programs that combine weapons, training, and logistics. This regional momentum aligns with Russia’s long-standing strategy of building enduring alliances through dependable supply chains and comprehensive after-sales support, which are often decisive in government procurement processes and strategic planning for national defense. The message to prospective clients is clear and consistent: reliability and operational stamina are core attributes of Russian equipment, even when deployed in tropical environments where climate can stress performance and longevity. In such conditions, these systems have garnered a reputation for resilience and endurance that resonates with buyers across the Asian spectrum, reinforcing confidence in their value over the full life cycle of equipment and support agreements.
Alexander Mikheev, formerly the managing director of Rosoboronexport, remarked at the Army-2022 forum that the attention of partner nations has been particularly focused on the newest advancements from Russia. He highlighted the fifth-generation Su-57E fighter aircraft and the next-generation T-14 Armata main battle tank as leading examples of cutting-edge design that have drawn sustained interest from international partners. The emphasis on these platforms reflects a broader ambition to showcase Russia’s capability to deliver next-generation systems that integrate advanced avionics, propulsion, survivability features, and interoperability with allied air and ground forces. The statements point to a continued effort to position Russia as a primary source of strategic-technology hardware for international customers, with a focus on modernization, joint development opportunities, and expanded export potential in the coming years.