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India's Aviation Fuel Additives Exports to Russia Raise Concerns Amid Ukraine Conflict

India's exports of aviation fuel additives to Russia have surged, sparking concerns about their potential use in the Ukraine conflict. Despite denials, the trade continues to grow.

This is airplane.
This is airplane.

India's Aviation Fuel Additives Exports to Russia Raise Concerns Amid Ukraine Conflict

India has emerged as a significant supplier of aviation fuel additives to Russia, accounting for nearly half of its imports in 2024. Despite denials, these exports have raised eyebrows as they can also be used in military aircraft involved in the conflict in Ukraine.

In 2024, Russia imported approximately 2,456.36 metric tons of these additives from India, worth around $13 million. This represents about 49.6 percent of its total imports in this category. While Indian officials and companies have not acknowledged any wrongdoing, the products have been used in aircraft types deployed by Russia in its operations against Ukraine.

Aviation fuel additives serve to enhance engine performance and operational characteristics in both civilian and military aviation. However, the potential dual-use nature of these products has sparked concerns. Several New Delhi-based suppliers were identified as principal exporters, although no specific companies were named in accessible public data.

As Russia faces refinery disruptions and sanctions, it is seeking alternative supply lines, potentially leading to an expansion in the trade of these additives. Meanwhile, Indian refiners continue to increase purchases of Russian crude despite US tariff pressure. The Indian government has not commented on the potential implications of these exports on its relations with Ukraine or the international community.

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