In response to escalating regional tensions following India’s Operation Sindoor, Russia is reinforcing its strategic partnership with India by offering its Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighter jets. This renewed proposal, highlighted by the Indian Defence Research Wing, aligns closely with India’s Make-in-India defense initiative, emphasizing technology transfer and deep localization.
Sources from Rostec, Russia’s defense conglomerate, have confirmed that the proposed deal involves co-production of the Su-57E jets in India. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been identified as the preferred manufacturing partner, with its Nashik facility being well-equipped, having already produced over 220 Su-30MKI jets under a license agreement. This existing infrastructure and operational experience make HAL a viable site for the production of the advanced stealth aircraft.
The Su-57E model being offered will feature critical upgrades specifically tailored for the requirements of the Indian Air Force (IAF). These enhancements include the integration of a Gallium Nitride-based AESA radar and an Indian-developed mission computer, both of which are in line with India’s ongoing Super-30 modernization program. Additionally, Russia is prepared to grant India access to source codes, allowing for custom modifications and fostering deeper cooperation with both private and public sector defense firms in India.
To expedite the integration of fifth-generation capabilities within the IAF, Russia has proposed to supply an initial batch of 20 to 30 Su-57E aircraft directly from its production line. This approach is aimed at accelerating the operational readiness of the IAF as it moves toward incorporating advanced fighter capabilities. The complete integration of Indian systems and components into the production process is estimated to take around three to four years.
Analysts regard this collaboration as a pivotal opportunity for enhancing interoperability between the future Su-57E fleet and India’s existing Su-30MKI aircraft. This synergy is crucial for the effective deployment of indigenous air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, potentially positioning India as a key hub for advanced stealth fighter production in the region.
As the only operational fifth-generation stealth jet in Russia’s arsenal, the Su-57E jet is designed for optimal radar evasion, equipped with supercruise capabilities and long-range R-37M air-to-air missiles that can engage targets at distances of up to 400 kilometers. This enhanced menu of capabilities responds directly to India’s increasing focus on indigenous defense production and its need to bolster aerial warfare capabilities amid ongoing regional security challenges.
