Analysis Despite Lucrative Offer, Why India May Not Choose Russian Su-35 Under MRFA Tender to Refill IAF's Dwindling Squadrons

Russia has reportedly presented its Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet as a candidate for India's Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender, a massive acquisition project aimed at procuring 114 new combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

While Russia has increased its domestic production of the Su-35 to support its military operations, the aircraft may not align with the Indian Air Force's long-term strategic and technological requirements, making its selection unlikely despite its formidable reputation.

The MRFA tender, valued at over $15 billion, is a critical initiative to arrest the IAF's declining squadron strength, which currently stands at around 31 against a sanctioned strength of 42. This procurement is intended to replace aging fleets of Jaguar and Mirage 2000 aircraft.

The Su-35, a highly manoeuvrable 4++ generation air superiority fighter, is being offered alongside other global contenders like the F/A-18 Super Hornet, F-15EX, Rafale, and Gripen.

A significant technological deficit of the Su-35 is its lack of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which is now a global standard for modern fighter jets.

The Su-35 is equipped with a Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA) radar. While capable, a PESA radar is generally less effective than an AESA system, which can simultaneously track a higher number of targets with greater accuracy and is more resistant to electronic jamming.

The absence of this critical technology places the Su-35 at a disadvantage compared to its competitors in the MRFA tender, all of which offer advanced AESA radars.

Furthermore, the aircraft does not feature the advanced avionics, sensor fusion, or stealth-enhancing characteristics being developed for Russia's fifth-generation Su-57 program.

For the IAF, which is looking towards future air combat scenarios, acquiring an aircraft without near-fifth-generation electronics would be a step sideways rather than forward, especially as it develops its own indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Instead of acquiring the Su-35, a more strategically viable option for India appears to be the comprehensive upgrade of its existing fleet of Su-30MKI jets.

The IAF is proceeding with the "Super 30" program, which will see at least 84 Su-30MKI aircraft—the backbone of India's fighter fleet—outfitted with state-of-the-art systems. This approach leverages a proven platform familiar to the IAF while elevating its capabilities to modern standards.

The centerpiece of the Super 30 upgrade is the integration of an indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based AESA radar, making it technologically superior to the Su-35’s PESA system.

The upgraded jets will also receive next-generation avionics, a modern glass cockpit with a Wide Area Display (WAD), and advanced electronic warfare suites.

Many of these systems are being developed for India’s own Tejas Mk2 and AMCA programs, ensuring synergy, interoperability, and a boost to the national defence industrial base under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-reliant India) initiative.

In conclusion, while the Russian Su-35 is a powerful aircraft, it represents a technological generation that India is moving beyond. The IAF's focus has clearly shifted towards upgrading its reliable Su-30MKI fleet with cutting-edge indigenous technology and pursuing its own advanced fighter programs.

Therefore, the Su-35's limitations in critical areas like radar and avionics make it an improbable solution for India's future air defence needs.

 

[R. Singh]

We should select Su-57 under MRFA & make Su-57 tech based 105+ FGFA/PMF !

 

[Vishwanath Vijay Thomre]

Why so much of confusion, if the need of the hour is 5th gen fighter. Why to distribute funds in two different platforms. As heard 60 Rafale + 60 SU57/ 5th gen. I feel investing in Rafale will be too costly at this moment. Just procure only 5th gen and no further 4.5+ gen jet. We already have our own platforms Tejas Mk1, Mk2 AMCA in pipeline. Any new procurement will take minimum 2-3 years to come, just for our stop gap purpose select good and economical platform with complete ToT. DIvert all remaining funds to Kaveri 2.0 engine, we are neglecting the engine which happens to be the core. Our AIM should be our own engine. US will any time give you shocks as they are giving the indications. Tejas is completely dependant on GE, time to think very seriously.

THE ENGINE IS THE MOST URGENT REQUIREMENT FOR INDIAN AIRFORCE STRENGTHENING.​

 

[Mc Addy]

Heavy drones must be the focus, exactly what the jets will do against an adversary like China , spead fro few 4000 km in diameter. Can't figure out this .

 

[Ashram]

Concentrate now on drones with Dew and missile carrying abilities which can strike 800kms .I think this will be the future of air warfare.

 

[pawan]

Why so much of confusion, if the need of the hour is 5th gen fighter. Why to distribute funds in two different platforms. As heard 60 Rafale + 60 SU57/ 5th gen. I feel investing in Rafale will be too costly at this moment. Just procure only 5th gen and no further 4.5+ gen jet. We already have our own platforms Tejas Mk1, Mk2 AMCA in pipeline. Any new procurement will take minimum 2-3 years to come, just for our stop gap purpose select good and economical platform with complete ToT. DIvert all remaining funds to Kaveri 2.0 engine, we are neglecting the engine which happens to be the core. Our AIM should be our own engine. US will any time give you shocks as they are giving the indications. Tejas is completely dependant on GE, time to think very seriously.

THE ENGINE IS THE MOST URGENT REQUIREMENT FOR INDIAN AIRFORCE STRENGTHENING.​

The problem of 5th gen fighter is it's expensive -ness. So much so, it starts becoming a white elephant and worry starts to creep in, what would happen if it gets shot down. And if it gets shot down, what's the point of spending so much on it, when the same amount can be spent on better avenues(upgrading existing Su30mki, putting the money in indigenous engine development/co- engine develop ment with the French/Rolls Royce etc.,better drones, indigenous HALE/MALE instead of import etc..)

 

[skyfall21]

Kaveri is a dead project, government has invested enough funds for a sub par performance. Not suitable for IAF.

 

[zedclan]

Buy SU-57 from Russia assemble them in India on current HAL SU30 assembly line facilities to instantly refill the emergency capability gap from China pak nexus atleast 3 squadrons and divert all fund to amca. That's the only viable option India have today. This could only happen if curropt beurocrats and ministers won't hench their legs into it to fulfill their unending greed

 

[navinbijoy]

Buy 9 squadrons SU 57, another 9 Squadrons Rafale F4.
Shortly Jaquar is the list of retirement.

Stop Tejas and concentrate on AMCA with fully Indian components.

 

[navinbijoy]

Buy 9 squadrons SU 57, another 9 Squadrons Rafale F4.
Shortly Jaquar is the list of retirement.

Stop Tejas and concentrate on AMCA with fully Indian components.

Also start immediate production of UCAV

 

[Virochana]

No of the do called advanced 5th Jets from the west with all their super high tech abilities do not dare to venture into Ukraine. The west is pouring billions of dollars . When it comes to fighter jets they find all sorts of reasons. The only jets Ukraine is using against Rusdia Migs & Sukhois. The F35 stranded in Kerala should be an eye opener. It took the full maintenance crew with a plane load of equipment flown in 35 days to repair. That too in peace time flying. Imagine what a single bullet/shell would do to a F35. Most of the western jets are great in movies n demos and tests in controlled conditions. Bharatshoild keep developing it's own, buying parts and assembling is not "made in India" every single chip n rivet should be made in India., We can do it. Bharatmata ki Jai.

 

[Manish Mehrotra]

We should go for SU57, it is cheaper than Rafale and more stealthy.we can add some of own technologies in it while we can’t do the same with rafale.What if we were to fight a two front war?

 

[Doc]

The Su-57 weighs in at around 35,000kgs and costs around 35-40 million against that of the F-35 at 80-115 million.
The Su-35 costs 40-85 million and is very marginally lighter than the Su-57 at 34,500kgs.

Both Su marks are capable of more or less similar roles, where the Su-57 dominates in air-superiority.

The pros/cons of both aircraft are shown below and will help in narrowing your choice for an MRFA :

THE SU-57

The Su-57 is designed for a wide range of roles, primarily as a multi-role fighter jet capable of both air superiority and strike missions. It excels in air-to-air combat, ground attack, and specialized missions, leveraging stealth, advanced avionics, and a variety of armaments.

Here's a breakdown of its capabilities:

• Air Superiority:

The Su-57 is designed to engage and defeat other fighter aircraft, including stealth fighters like the F-35.

  Air-to-Ground Strike:

It can effectively target ground-based threats, including those beyond the range of enemy radar.

  Stealth:

The Su-57 incorporates stealth features like radar-absorbent material (RAM), innovative shaping, and internal weapon bays to minimize radar and infrared signatures.

  Supercruise:

The upgraded engine allows the Su-57 to cruise at supersonic speeds without afterburners, extending its range and conserving fuel.

  Maneuverability:

The Su-57 is designed for high agility, with advanced thrust vectoring and aerodynamic control surfaces.

  Avionics:

It features advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and AI-enabled communication systems for enhanced situational awareness and targeting.

  Armament:

The Su-57 can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, including long-range options.

  Hypersonic Missile Compatibility:

The Su-57 is compatible with hypersonic missiles like the Kinzhal, although their deployment is currently limited.

  Export Potential:

The Su-57E, the export version, is being actively promoted, including at events like Aero India.


THE SU-35

The Sukhoi Su-35, also known as the Flanker-E+, is a highly advanced Russian fighter jet, primarily designed for air superiority and multi-role capabilities. Its strengths include high speed, maneuverability, long range, and advanced radar. However, it faces challenges in stealth and certain electronic warfare aspects compared to fifth-generation fighters.

Roles:

• Air Superiority: The Su-35 excels at air combat, engaging and defeating enemy aircraft.
• Multi-role Operations: It can also perform ground attack, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare missions.
• Long-Range Interception: Its extended range allows it to intercept targets at considerable distances.

Pros:

• Super Maneuverability:

Features like thrust-vectoring engines and relaxed stability contribute to exceptional agility, allowing for advanced maneuvers like the "Cobra".

  High Speed:

Can reach Mach 2.25, making it faster than many other 4th and 4.5th generation fighters.

  Long Range:

The Su-35 boasts a combat radius exceeding 900 miles, enabling it to cover large areas.

  Advanced Radar:

The Irbis-E radar offers a long detection range and can track multiple targets simultaneously.

  Powerful Engines:

Its engines provide high thrust, contributing to its speed and maneuverability.

  Large Weapon Payload:

The Su-35 can carry a significant arsenal of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles.

Cons:

• Stealth Limitations:

While not a stealth fighter, the Su-35's radar signature is a concern against advanced fifth-generation fighters.

  Electronic Warfare Capabilities:

Some reports suggest its electronic warfare systems may be less advanced than those of some Western counterparts.

  Avionics and Radar Technology:

While capable, its avionics and radar are not considered on par with the latest fifth-generation fighters.

  Maintenance and Reliability:

Like many Russian aircraft, the Su-35 may require more complex maintenance compared to some Western designs.

  Engine Vulnerability:

Thrust vectoring engines can be vulnerable in certain combat situations.

 

[P2S2]

Why so much of confusion, if the need of the hour is 5th gen fighter. Why to distribute funds in two different platforms. As heard 60 Rafale + 60 SU57/ 5th gen. I feel investing in Rafale will be too costly at this moment. Just procure only 5th gen and no further 4.5+ gen jet. We already have our own platforms Tejas Mk1, Mk2 AMCA in pipeline. Any new procurement will take minimum 2-3 years to come, just for our stop gap purpose select good and economical platform with complete ToT. DIvert all remaining funds to Kaveri 2.0 engine, we are neglecting the engine which happens to be the core. Our AIM should be our own engine. US will any time give you shocks as they are giving the indications. Tejas is completely dependant on GE, time to think very seriously.

THE ENGINE IS THE MOST URGENT REQUIREMENT FOR INDIAN AIRFORCE STRENGTHENING.​

Exactly. Su35 will run rings around F35s. We are capable of helping the Russian with the stuff that is lacking.
Buying all the present production of Su35s will be India's way of saving Ukrainian lives.

 

[Doc]

Here's my take :

!) The Su-35 is being written off due to want of a modern AESA radar.

2) We are losing sight of the fact that retro-modifying our existing Su-30MFIs will only give us a 4++ Gen aircraft without enhancing sqn strength > you can either modify or produce new aircraft.
Does HAL have the wherewithal to do both? I think not.
So, we'll be losing track of the basic purpose of the MRFA.

3) Sensors, avionics and stealth are disadvantages of the Su-35, compared to the Su-57 (which has NOT been suggested as a contender).

4) The Su-35 is being rejected outright based on qualities at Paras 1 & 3 above. Retro-fitting an AESA radar is an option that merits consideration.

5) The modified 'Super Su' to my mind will NOT be in the same category of the powerful and versatile Su-35.

So, a rethink might be in order before rejecting the Su-35.
Please read in conjunction with my post two slots up.

 

[P2S2]

Don't write off the goliath that easily. The place is buzzing. However buying the present production off the Russians just to stop them bombing their own people could be our contribution for peace in Europe.