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Renewed discussions surrounding India's potential acquisition of Russia’s Su-57E fifth-generation fighter have sparked a significant debate within defence circles.
As the Indian Air Force (IAF) contends with a shortfall in squadron numbers and heightened security challenges in the region, the Russian aircraft is being considered as a potential solution.
However, questions are emerging about its intended role: will it be employed as a premier stealth aircraft, or as a heavy strike platform in the mould of the Su-30MKI, prioritising firepower over low observability?
Reports suggest that India is exploring a deal for two squadrons, comprising 36 to 40 aircraft, to be purchased directly from Russia.
The proposal may also include a provision for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to assemble a small number of additional jets at its Nashik facility, which has extensive experience with Russian aircraft.
This potential procurement is viewed as a separate, interim measure to bolster the IAF’s capabilities, distinct from the long-delayed Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
The focus appears to be on leveraging the Su-57E for long-range strike missions, particularly for the Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD)—a high-risk task of neutralising enemy radar and missile systems.
This strategic thinking is partly influenced by the IAF’s successful adaptation of its existing fleet.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI, originally inducted as an air superiority fighter, has been progressively transformed into a formidable ground-attack aircraft, capable of launching heavy standoff weapons like the BrahMos cruise missile.
The Su-57E, with its superior 10-ton payload capacity and ability to carry advanced long-range weapons like the R-37M air-to-air missile and hypersonic Kinzhal missiles internally, could further enhance this doctrine of heavy, long-range strikes.
The strategic compulsions for such an acquisition are clear.
China's air force is rapidly expanding its fleet of stealth J-20 fighters, estimated to number over 200, while Pakistan continues to modernise its air force.
To counter these integrated air defence systems, the IAF requires a versatile and powerful platform. The Su-57E's combination of advanced sensors and supermaneuverability makes it a potent aircraft, but its effectiveness depends heavily on its ability to survive in heavily contested airspace.
Questions Over Stealth Performance
The primary concern for analysts is the Su-57’s stealth capability, which is measured by its Radar Cross-Section (RCS)—essentially, how visible it is to an enemy radar.The Su-57E's estimated RCS is between 0.1 and 0.5 square metres. While this is a significant improvement over fourth-generation fighters like the Su-30MKI (which has an RCS of around 10-20 m²), it is considerably higher than the American F-35's estimated RCS of 0.0015 m², making the Russian jet far more detectable.
These concerns are not new. In 2018, India withdrew from the joint Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program with Russia, which was based on the Su-57 platform, citing dissatisfaction with the aircraft's stealth performance, engine technology, and development timeline.
Defence experts point out that for SEAD missions requiring external missiles and pods, the Su-57E's RCS would increase further, potentially diminishing its stealth advantage over modern 4.5-generation jets like the Dassault Rafale.
Ultimately, the discussion highlights a pragmatic choice for the IAF: embrace the Su-57E as a powerful "mini-bomber" that uses its heavy payload and speed for deep strike missions, or continue the search for a true stealth fighter.
While proponents argue for its value as a flexible, multi-role asset until India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is ready in the 2030s, critics warn against repeating past issues and urge a thorough evaluation before any commitment is made.
