Interaction between Russia and China in the military-technical field: features and trends

The article examines the main directions of military-technical cooperation between Russia and China, including the transfer and adaptation of military technologies. It analyzes the process of reverse engineering of Russian weapons samples, as well as their modernization in China with subsequent implementation in national armament programs. Particular attention is paid to aviation technologies, including Russian jet engines and their use in Chinese fighters Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-35/FC-31. Examples of borrowing electronic systems are discussed, such as shipborne radars "Frigate" (type 382) and fire control systems type 366, as well as the modernization of anti-aircraft missile systems, including analogs of Russian SAM systems "Tor-M1" and "Pantsir-S". Special attention is given to technology transfer in the field of submarines, including diesel-electric submarines of the "Kilo" class and their Chinese analogs of type 041 with air-independent propulsion. The methodological foundation of this study is an interdisciplinary approach based on the main tenets and methods of structural realism (neorealism). Referring to this scientific school allows for an analysis of the tools and substantive content of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the military-technical sphere. In conclusion, the author notes that the transfer of technologies from Russia to China is a trend in Russian-Chinese military-technical cooperation, and there are no prerequisites for its change. A forecast is made that this trend will continue, given China's strong desire to develop its own defense manufacturing capabilities. The article conducts a comparative analysis of Chinese and Russian weaponry, demonstrating the degree of technological divergence and identifies trends towards reducing China's dependence on Russian military technologies. Additionally, a perspective on bilateral cooperation is presented in light of current geopolitical challenges and potential risks for the Russian defense industry. The author predicts that in the absence of fundamental changes in this area, a scenario that would be beneficial for Russia is gaining broader access to Chinese commercial technologies and dual-use technologies, which would help both maintain its defense industry in the context of military confrontation with the Collective West and develop a more innovative economy.

military-technical cooperation, Russian-Chinese relations, Russia, China, strategic partnership, air forces, naval forces, military modernization, missile technologies, People's Liberation Army of China