India finally powers up engine production as it prepares to talk platforms with Putin
Russia’s Su-57 stealth jets are expected to be a key focus during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India this week. (Photo: author)
Engine technology has been thrust into the spotlight ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India this week, with the Su-57, S-400 and Kamov-226 expected to be high on the agenda.
Even as vendors await clarity on the Indian Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) two‑decade‑old request for proposals (RfP) for 114 Multi‑Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), New Delhi readies to host Russian President Vladimir Putin on 4-5 December.
Constrained by export sanctions, his visit seeks to push India towards the Su‑57 exhibited at Aero India 2025. He is also promoting additional S‑400s and 76 Kamov‑226 helicopters, which are transitioning to the Klimov VK‑650V engine. These helicopters are intended for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) under the Naval Utility Helicopter programme for which the request for information (RfI) concluded in
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