During the Aero India 2025 air show, Russia reaffirmed its offer to India for the Sukhoi Su-57, the fifth-generation stealth fighter plane. If the Indian government accepts the offer, the proposal calls for the construction of joint production facilities in India, which could begin as early as this year.
Significant technology transfer, including cutting-edge technologies like engines, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, and artificial intelligence components, is promised by the agreement. With the ongoing Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) development in mind, this partnership seeks to strengthen India’s domestic defense capabilities.
In light of growing military rivalry in the region, especially from China, India is taking this offer into consideration as it struggles to maintain the size of its fighter aircraft fleet. The Su-57 could serve as a counterbalance to Western aircraft such as the F-35 and aid in modernizing India’s air force.
After India withdrew from a joint Indo-Russian Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft program in 2018, there is now renewed interest. According to experts, India’s present military requirements might lead to a reexamination of these partnerships with Russia.
The geopolitical environment has changed, and sanctions pertaining to Russia’s activities in Ukraine are putting pressure on its economy. In an effort to strengthen its defense industry, Moscow may be more open to talks with India as a result of this circumstance.
India is carefully assessing Russia’s offer in light of larger strategic considerations, even if it has not yet committed to the deal.
