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Russia has presented a renewed proposal to India for its Su-57E fifth-generation fighter aircraft, enhancing the offer with a plan for deep technological integration with Indian-made systems.
According to sources within Rostec, Russia's state-owned defence corporation, the new bid suggests equipping the stealth fighter with core components being developed for India’s own Sukhoi-30MKI fleet upgrade, known as the 'Super-30' program.
This strategic move aims to create a seamless operational environment between the existing Su-30MKI fleet and the new Su-57E. The proposal includes incorporating a Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and a mission computer both developed in India.
By using these common systems, the Indian Air Force (IAF) could equip the Su-57E with its own indigenous weapons, such as the Astra air-to-air missile and various air-to-surface munitions. This alignment strongly supports India's national objective of self-reliance in the defence sector.
A Rostec official highlighted that this approach would allow the Su-57E to serve as an effective platform for validating and operationalizing the advanced systems India is developing for its Super-30 jets.
This process could provide the IAF with a ready-made fifth-generation capability while simultaneously maturing its homegrown defence technologies.
Production Plan and Addressing IAF Needs
To facilitate local manufacturing, Rostec has proposed Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) facility in Nashik as the production hub for the Su-57E in India.The Nashik plant has extensive experience, having license-produced over 220 Su-30MKI jets, and already possesses much of the required infrastructure. This makes it a cost-effective and logical choice for establishing a production line.
However, the complete localization of the fighter, including the integration of Indian subsystems, is estimated to require a period of three to four years. To address the IAF's immediate operational requirements during this transition, Russia has offered to supply an initial batch of 20 to 30 Su-57E jets directly.
This phased approach would allow the IAF to induct a fifth-generation fighter quickly to counter a decline in its squadron strength, while simultaneously building up the domestic ecosystem for future production under the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative.
Bridging a Critical Capability Gap
The offer comes at a critical time for the IAF, which is grappling with the retirement of its aging MiG-21 squadrons and delays in the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.The AMCA, India’s own fifth-generation fighter project, is not expected to enter production until 2034-35, with its first flight scheduled for 2029.
This timeline leaves a significant capability gap, particularly as regional rivals advance their air power. China already operates its J-20 stealth fighter, and Pakistan is reportedly on track to induct the J-31 by 2029.
The Su-57E is being positioned as a formidable interim solution. While its stealth characteristics are widely considered to be less advanced than those of the American F-35, the aircraft is noted for its exceptional supermaneuverability, large payload capacity, and the potential to carry future hypersonic weapons.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
Despite the attractive proposal, India's decision will involve weighing several challenges. The timeline for full technology transfer and localization remains a key factor.Furthermore, concerns persist regarding the final version of the Su-57's advanced 'Izdeliye 30' engine, which is still in development.
Additionally, any major defence deal with Russia raises the possibility of geopolitical friction, including potential sanctions under the U.S. Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
Past experiences with the Su-30MKI program, though largely successful, have also highlighted recurring issues with the availability of spare parts and maintenance support, which would need to be definitively addressed in any new agreement.