Russia and India are currently in high-level talks to jointly produce the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet, with Moscow providing hitherto unheard-of prospects for technology transfer and localisation.
Ahead of the annual meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in December, this partnership, which is in line with India’s “Make in India” and “Self-Reliant India” objectives, represents a turning point in bilateral defence relations. The
Intense discussions on the Su-57E platform were confirmed by Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov, who emphasised Russia’s readiness to share technology and assist full-scale licensed manufacturing in India.
According to reports, the proposal envisions considerable participation from Indian industry as well as phased, indigenous manufacture overseen by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in addition to the supply of assembled aircraft. The
Moscow is providing full access to the Su-57 ecosystem, which includes source codes, stealth materials, engines, sensors, avionics, AESA radar, low-signature technology, sophisticated armaments, and artificial intelligence systems. This offer goes beyond simple assembly.
This level of technology transfer surpasses standard offsets or kit-based assembly approaches used in earlier Indo-Russian partnerships like the Su-30MKI, making it unparalleled in India’s defence procurements. The
Two or more squadrons of Su-57s may be delivered to India in fly-away condition at first, with following squadrons being built domestically. This strategy facilitates capability growth and cost reduction, strengthening HAL’s position as an integrator and opening the door for upcoming fifth-generation fighter upgrades.
The talks take place at the same time that Russia and India continue to work together on other significant projects, like the development of BrahMos missiles and the S-400 and S-500 air defence systems. The
At the Dubai Air Show, Russian officials showcased the Su-57’s operational capabilities and emphasised their competitive edge in providing complete technology transfer, something that Western partners have continuously rejected. Sergey Chemezov, CEO of ROSTEC, reaffirmed Russia’s dedication to fulfilling India’s requests for military hardware, including production assistance and weapons integration. The
Due to differences over cost and technology, India withdrew from the joint FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft) development about ten years ago.
The current revival plan is thought to be economical because it takes into account India’s fast domestic fighter development as well as new geopolitical realities: Su-57 aircraft, which are still less expensive than the US F-35 and offer sovereign manufacture and upgrade rights, now cost an estimated $35–50 million per unit, rising to $60–75 million with local production. The
Putin’s visit in December is anticipated to result in significant progress on the Su-57 contract, which might change India’s air combat policy by striking a balance between access to cutting-edge technology, the development of domestic capabilities, and strategic independence in the fifth-generation domain. The
