By Aritra Banerjee
Rosoboronexport, the Russian state intermediary agency for exporting and importing defence-related and dual-use products, has presented a range of Russian military helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and air defence assets at Aero India 2023 in Bengaluru.
The company is highlighting the Ka-226T light utility helicopter (LUH), which it suggests could be produced under the ‘Make in India’ program at the Indo-Russian Helicopters Limited joint venture, which involves Russian and Indian industrial companies.
The upgraded versions of the Ka-52E and Mi-28NE attack helicopters and the Mi-171Sh military transport helicopters are also being showcased. These helicopters are currently in strong demand in the Asia-Pacific (APAC).
Russian UAVs are also on display, including the Orion-E reconnaissance/strike UAV, the Orlan-10E reconnaissance UAV, and the new Orlan-30 launched in 2022.
Visitors to the Rosoboronexport exhibition stand can view the entire range of air defence assets that operate independently or as part of an echeloned air defence system. The company is exhibiting the S-350E Vityaz air defence missile system, the Viking, Tor-M2KM, and Tor-M2E SAM systems, and the Pantsir-S1 self-propelled anti-aircraft gun/missile (SPAAGM) system.
The company is also offering the Igla-S and Verba man-portable air defence systems. Russian-made anti-drone systems are also on display, including Repellent, RLK-MCE, RB-504P-E, and RB 504A-E.
Industry and strategic analysts view Rosoboronexport’s participation in Aero India 2023 as indicative of the growing partnership between Russia and India in the defence sector as both countries look to deepen their military and economic ties.
