India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, has maintained a cautious stance on the potential co-production of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet.
In a recent wide-ranging interview, Mr. Singh confirmed that while discussions with Moscow are in progress, no immediate announcement is forthcoming, stating that "talks are ongoing, but no announcement will be made for now."
This non-committal position comes as India aggressively pursues its 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) policy, aiming to build its own defence manufacturing base.
The interview addresses widespread speculation about the Su-57. Russia has reportedly offered its advanced stealth aircraft, sometimes seen as an alternative to Western jets like the US F-35, for local manufacturing in India. This would potentially involve Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for assembly and technology transfer.
However, the minister's reluctance to commit highlights India's clear strategic priority: the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. The government appears to favor developing its own domestic stealth fighter over a rapid acquisition from a foreign partner.
Mr. Singh provided a positive update on India’s defence reforms, noting a significant shift from the nation being a top importer to a growing exporter of military hardware. A major component of this strategy is the domestic production of critical technologies.
He announced that advanced fighter jet engines—essential for platforms like the Tejas light combat aircraft and the future AMCA—are set to be manufactured on Indian soil within the next year.
This follows near-finalized agreements for technology transfer with global leaders like GE Aerospace of the U.S. (for the F414 engine) and Safran of France.
"We won’t take ready-made goods from anyone; we will take knowledge, take technology, and use it on our soil," Singh asserted, emphasizing India's focus on acquiring technical knowledge, not just equipment.
Regarding the AMCA, India's own fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Defence Minister expressed strong confidence. He confirmed that the design work for the aircraft is complete and its development is proceeding satisfactorily.
While such advanced projects often face long timelines, Mr. Singh dismissed concerns about delays, suggesting the project could be delivered ahead of its projected 10-year schedule.
This indigenous program is a cornerstone of the government’s 'positive indigenization list,' which now covers over 550 key defence items, with thousands of units already being produced domestically.
While cautious on the Su-57, the minister was clear about India's commitment to another major Russian platform: the S-400 Triumf air defence system.
He affirmed that India would not hesitate to acquire any equipment necessary for its security. "Whatever strengthens India’s security, we have no hesitation in acquiring it," he stated.
Deliveries of the S-400 regiments are progressing, despite the threat of US sanctions under the CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act). This dual approach shows India's strategy of diversifying its acquisitions while balancing relationships with key partners.
The focus on 5th-generation jets is part of a wider modernization of the Indian Air Force. The existing fleet of French-made Rafale jets was praised for its significant impact on India's defence preparedness.
Furthermore, negotiations are advancing for a potential 114 additional units under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
This is happening alongside the accelerated testing of the indigenous Tejas Mark-2, demonstrating India's multi-pronged approach to maintaining air superiority through both foreign and domestic platforms.
