Russia's Su-57E Offer to India Now Includes 'Super-30' Configuration for Indigenous Weapons Integration and Seamless Maintenance

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.

 

With Its X-Band Phased Array Monopulse Seeker, BrahMos-NG to Achieve Pinpoint Accuracy against Diverse and Fast-moving Threats

[sanket]

Oh, that's what I have said 100 times: commonality with Super Sukhoi & Su-57 from GaN-based AESA Radar, Mission computer, heavy weapons. The engine can too have 70% commonality. Anyway, Su-57 is a dark horse under MRFA. French are already feeling the heat under a foreign partner for engine development for AMCA 120 kN.

Mark my word, Safran is going to lose the engine deal, and further, Dassault's unwillingness to start a local assembly line with a complete eco-system, plus Rafale M was denied integration of indigenous GaN-based AESA Radar, autonomy sharing of source code, mission computer, most important sharing ToT & lastly localization of components. Here Dassault will be challenged, unlike they will like to import the components from France in semi-knock-down kits. Instead, now they have to match the Russian offer. Even engine components need to be manufactured locally. That means whole fighter jet projects need to be made to stand under an eco-system around.

That's what exactly I have said 1000 times: each and every nut and bolt has to be manufactured locally by vendors from Bharat. Rostec at the moment is way ahead. Dassault needs to match the offer. Already Safran is likely burnt its fingers in the engine deal. The engine deal is slipping from the hands of Safran. RR is the front runner.

The engine deal will be a lesson to the French & hope they will make a better offer for Rafale under MRFA. Moral of the offer: French lost the aero-battle with AMCA Engine. A common engine for AMCA as well as Rafale would have given an edge for Dassault in winning the engine as well as the MRFA deal, but Rostec's offer, they too know how to win the deal by bonding Super Sukhoi upgrade offer with Su-57E. Rostec has made a smart move while Dassault is lagging behind. Question is, where is US................???? Remember another major difference is Su-57E comes with Okhotnik Drone & AI variant, unlike Rafale currently lacks drone combo combat operation.

 

[GMR]

The waiting game of IAF and MoD still continues. Even after realising our own 5th Gen is still 10 years away, at least, and neighbours have planned to move ahead in procurement. Once the USA officially offers F-35, we will get entangled in the unwanted, dirty geopolitical net of the Trump administration. For once, be decisive, think out of the box, and act fast on what needs to be done.

 

[Anonymus]

Please buy any fifth-gen fighter in just a limited no. but don't spend entire money on fourth-gen aircraft. If IAF considers buying fourth-gen jets in MRFA, then at least procure some limited no. of fifth-gen jets like a package combination of fourth and fifth-gen.

Rafale + Su-57
Rafale + F-35
Su-35 + Su-57
F-15 + F-35

Su-35 + Su-57 will be the best combination, followed by Rafale + Su-57.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

We should ask for India specific improvements and procure 2-3 squadrons of it.

 

[Frank]

Su-57 has no stealth. That's why IAF rejected it in 2018 after wasting 300 million $ in the project.

Are people really this dumb? Why is Su-57 even in discussions? I don't understand.

 

[Thyhandsonus Lyngdoh]

The US has never been our true friend. So, better to explore alternative markets to export Indian products hitherto exported to the US. Safety and simultaneously economy can be ensured by the Su-57 deal. Facing sanctions is better than pledging national security. Till AMCA becomes ready from 2035 onwards, Su-57 provides interim relief/support.

No country has “true friends” in defense or politics—only interests. The US isn’t India’s “friend” any more than Russia is. Deals happen when they serve strategic or economic goals. But that doesn’t mean you settle for any hardware just because of politics.

About the Su-57 — it’s still barely operational with Russia’s own Air Force, production is slow, and stealth capabilities are limited compared to Western or even Chinese 5th-gen fighters. It’s closer to a Gen 4+ jet with some stealth features slapped on. Sanctions, supply chain issues, and maintenance challenges will make full integration and sustained operations a headache.

If AMCA gets delayed until 2035, sure, interim solutions are needed. But Su-57 isn’t a guaranteed upgrade or a quick fix — it’s a risky bet on uncertain tech from a struggling program. Better to diversify partnerships and invest in proven platforms and indigenous projects than tie national security to a program that’s still more promise than reality.

 

[Jabberwock]

Pakistan wants revenge. That's why they are on a purchase spree to buy Turkish air defence systems and Chinese J-35 stealth fighter jets with PL-17 missiles. They are preparing for the next war. Ballistic missiles will also be used; that's my prediction, but I anticipate it's not far from the truth. Money is not an issue as they got billions in IMF loans and discounts from Turkey, the mad dictator Erdogan. China got humiliated so they are also providing huge discounts.

 

[Avada kedavra]

I think I am having a slight change of heart. Maybe India should buy the Su-57.

But don't treat it as a real 5th gen plane, more like a stealthier version of the Su-30 MKI. It's not as stealthy as other 5th gen planes, but definitely stealthier than Rafale, right?

But don't buy them off the shelf loaded with Russian junk EW suite. Get full ToT and integrate the plane with Indian avionics only, like Uttam radar, fire control systems, Indian missiles, etc.

And now, since Russia is at its weakest state, isn't it possible to push them to give some real jet engine ToT?

 

[Mc Addy]

No combat record of any significance .Russia fooled us for 1 billion funding, again same trick.

 

[Imaxxx]

So the choice is get some Su57s first - like 3-4 squadrons and AMCA later OR just wait for AMCA. With AMCA we don't know how long it will take. The weakest link in the prod chain is the engine - MoD is still undecided despite the GE 404/414 fiasco. Even with engine problems sorted, FOC AMCA will be flying in 2035.
Otoh, PAF has got 40x J10s and will get 40x J20 very soon. And who knows they could get another 40 or 80 J20s in early 2030s before AMCA reaches prod stage. If they have 100+ J series aircraft, it will seriously put huge pressure on IAF in an air war.
Already IAF has gone from a blatant offensive posture in Op Kargil to a somewhat defensive posture in Op Sindoor. In early 2030s the disparity will be even worse.
There is no time to waste. IAF needs to the numbers up with modern aircraft and currently the only aircraft available is Su57.

 

[Mc Addy]

If National interest are more then, no US pressure counts but SU 57 is not combat proven in Ukraine Russia conflict , right in its backyard. Done nothing till now so drop it as a needless matter . Having stealth that's unproven or matter of fact F35 also is flying over no SAM environment.

 

[Anonymus]

Su-57 has no stealth. That's why IAF rejected it in 2018 after wasting 300 million $ in the project.

Are people really this dumb? Why is Su-57 even in discussions? I don't understand.

SU-57 has stealth, but not as stealthy as F-35. IAF rejected SU-57 not on stealth; it's due to concerns about technology transfer and cost-sharing. Additionally, the AL-41 engine was not powerful enough for SU-57, but now with AL-51 engines with flat nozzles in testing, the scenario has changed.

The main problem with the F-35 is that if India procures even 50 F-35s, it will cost $5 billion (flyaway cost excluding weapons package, training facility, India-specific enhancements, and spare parts). If all these are included, the price will surely boost up, but this is not the main problem. The main problem is the lifecycle cost; it will exceed $100 billion in just a decade. Even if India gives a 200+ aircraft order, the US won't give ToT and source code to India.

The US won't give Israeli upgrade like offers to India because of S-400. Providing an Adir-like package has a higher risk of F-35 data leaks, which the US won't afford. Plus, India being a member of BRICS, which includes both China and Russia, also has a higher chance of F-35 data getting leaked via BRICS cooperation. So, by any means, the US won't offer F-35 with ToT or any other tech to India.

However, Russia, with the SU-57, has already offered ToT, Indian weapon integration, and Indian components can replace Russian components in the SU-57, which helps India to modify jets according to Indian requirements either at present or in the future.

 

[BongMania]

I am not for it. Indian 4th Gen will still be better than Chinese 6th, 7th or whatever gen Chinese call it any day. The only concern is Turkish KAAN in Pak hands; that will be a real deal. With VHF radars, India can spot any stealth fighter though.

 

[Somnath Sinhababu]

Oh, that's what I have said 100 times: commonality with Super Sukhoi & Su-57 from GaN-based AESA Radar, Mission computer, heavy weapons. The engine can too have 70% commonality. Anyway, Su-57 is a dark horse under MRFA. French are already feeling the heat under a foreign partner for engine development for AMCA 120 kN.

Any mega deals with Russia can be dangerous for India because the US can put sanctions on India. The US can help Pakistan indirectly by helping them get loans from the IMF, World Bank. India needs the US market for export. We have to be realistic. Trump can do anything. The F-35 is way more capable than the Su-57. India should buy 3 squadrons of F-35 along with 3 more squadrons of Rafale and a few S-400 systems. India can tell the US, "Look, we are also buying from you, so allow us to buy S-400 from Russia." Geopolitics is a very dangerous and brutal game, brother. India should also buy additional P-8Is and C-130Js, Chinooks from the US. You have to give deals to the US to continue our defence relationship with Russia.

 

[kunites]

This is a great offer, and ideally, India should not have waited to give a green signal to this. However, US backlash through sanctions is a clear threat, particularly to Tejas Mk1 and Mk2 engines, which will derail the whole indigenous programme.

 

[sanket]

Any mega deals with Russia can be dangerous for India because the US can put sanctions on India. The US can help Pakistan indirectly by helping them get loans from the IMF, World Bank. India needs the US market for export. We have to be realistic. Trump can do anything. The F-35 is way more capable than the Su-57. India should buy 3 squadrons of F-35 along with 3 more squadrons of Rafale and a few S-400 systems. India can tell the US, "Look, we are also buying from you, so allow us to buy S-400 from Russia." Geopolitics is a very dangerous and brutal game, brother. India should also buy additional P-8Is and C-130Js, Chinooks from the US. You have to give deals to the US to continue our defence relationship with Russia.

The US is not a police; either match a similar offer with the F-35, or just be a spectator. The US cannot dictate all the time what to buy and from whom to buy. Bharat is going to pay for the deal and not be sponsored by the US. Actually, the US will sell with restrictions. Secondly, the US will not match the similar offer. Thirdly, the US will likely be interested in a small number of F-35s, let's say two squadrons or 40 odd, just to save face from the local manufacturing idea.

 

[Thyhandsonus Lyngdoh]

People seriously pitching the Su-57 as our AMCA stopgap like it's a proven 5th-gen jet. Let’s not kid ourselves—it’s stealthy only from the front, its engines are still old-gen, and the sensor fusion feels like it’s running on trial software. India already looked under the hood during the FGFA project and said, "Nah, we’re good"—walked away faster than a MiG-21 in a flat spin. That should’ve told everyone something.

Now the same folks are barking about full ToT, like Russia’s going to just hand it all over while they can’t even finish deliveries to their own squadrons. They even claimed our Su-30 production line just needs a few tweaks to build the Su-57. Bro, if your next-gen stealth fighter runs on bolt-on upgrades from a 90s airframe, is it really next-gen? Sounds more like Su-30.5 to me.

We’re better off letting AMCA cook than settling for export-grade cosplay stealth. Let’s not buy into fantasy just because it’s painted with angles.