India appears to be distancing itself from Russia's Su-75 Checkmate fighter jet program, citing financial constraints and developmental uncertainties. A senior Indian Air Force (IAF) official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the IAF is not actively considering the Su-75, primarily due to the significant financial burden it would place on India.
The Su-75 Checkmate, a single-engine stealth fighter developed by Russia's Sukhoi Design Bureau, was unveiled at the MAKS 2021 airshow. While marketed as a competitor to the American F-35, the project has faced challenges in securing firm orders and financial backing.
Unlike traditional fighter jet programs, where the home nation's government funds the majority of the development, Russia is seeking substantial investment from potential export customers for the Su-75. This presents a significant financial risk for India, which is already heavily invested in its own fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
"Developmental funding will need to come from the export customer," the IAF official stated, highlighting the increased financial burden for any nation interested in procuring the Su-75. This approach differs significantly from the development of other fifth-generation fighters, such as the F-35, which received substantial funding from the US government.
Further complicating the Su-75's prospects is the lack of interest from the Russian Air Force itself. Rostec CEO Sergei Chemezov acknowledged in 2021 that the fighter is being produced "at the company’s own risk," relying heavily on attracting foreign buyers. This reliance on export orders raises concerns about the project's long-term viability and sustainability.
Despite initial marketing efforts targeting countries like India, the UAE, and Vietnam, the Su-75 has yet to secure any confirmed orders. This lack of a solid customer base adds to the uncertainty surrounding the project.
The IAF official's comments suggest that India is prioritizing its own indigenous fighter jet program and is unwilling to shoulder the financial risks associated with the Su-75 Checkmate. With no firm commitments from Russia and an uncertain future, the Su-75 faces an uphill battle in securing international partners, particularly those with their own advanced fighter jet ambitions.
