In anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming bilateral visit to Russia, talks regarding the joint development of a 5th generation fighter jet have reportedly resurfaced.
Bloomberg reports that both nations are considering reviving discussions centered around the previously stalled Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program.
The FGFA program initially aimed to create a two-seater variant of Russia's Su-57 jet. However, India withdrew from the collaboration in 2018 due to concerns over the aircraft's capabilities.
While Russia has proposed its new single-engine Su-75 stealth fighter as a replacement, India has expressed reservations about major Russian aircraft acquisitions at this time.
This potential reengagement indicates India's ongoing interest in developing a next-generation fighter jet. Whether this translates to a renewed FGFA program or a different collaborative venture remains unclear.
The upcoming visit between Prime Minister Modi and Russian leaders is expected to shed light on the future of India's 5th generation fighter jet ambitions.
Historical Context
India and Russia's FGFA program dates back to 2007. The project faced numerous setbacks over the years due to disagreements on cost-sharing, technology transfer, and the number of aircraft to be produced.The Indian Air Force's concerns about the Su-57's stealth capabilities, radar performance, and engine reliability ultimately led to the country's withdrawal from the program.
The upcoming discussions between Indian and Russian officials will likely focus on resolving past issues that hindered the FGFA program. These include cost-sharing, technology transfer, and the overall design of the fighter jet.
If successful, a renewed partnership could lead to the development of a state-of-the-art aircraft that meets the requirements of both nations.
However, if disagreements persist, India may explore alternative options, such as collaborating with other countries or focusing on its own indigenous fighter jet program.
