Russia is exploring the possibility of producing its advanced Su-57 fighter jets in India, according to insider information shared with local news agencies. The study is currently underway to assess the necessary investments for this initiative. Given India’s historical connections and reliance on Russian military equipment, officials believe that the local production of the Su-57 could be feasible at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facility in Hashik, which is already licensed to manufacture the Su-30MKI aircraft.
In addition to HAL, other facilities in India that produce Russian-origin military equipment could play a role in this potential collaboration. Moscow officials have also encouraged the Indian government to consider further acquisitions of the S-400 and S-500 air defense systems, which could enhance India’s aerial capabilities.
New Delhi had initially planned to co-produce the Su-57 fighter jet but backed out of the program in 2018 over disagreements related to cost-sharing and performance specifications. However, sources indicate that the revival of this partnership remains a possibility, particularly in light of the evolving international landscape.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently seeking to address its requirements for two to three squadrons of fifth-generation combat aircraft, and both the US-made F-35 and the Russian-origin Su-57 have been on the table. India opted against the F-35, preferring the opportunity for technology sharing and local manufacturing—a request that faces limitations due to Washington’s national security policies regarding sensitive technologies.
This decision also comes amid a backdrop of declining trade relations with the United States, leaving the Su-57 “Felon” as a prominent contender for India’s fifth-generation stealth aircraft needs. This aircraft is designed to compete with the F-35, boasting impressive specifications such as an operational ceiling of 18,800 meters and a combat radius of 1,250 kilometers.
Given that a significant portion of the IAF’s combat fleet consists of Russian-origin aircraft, including the Su-30MKI and MiG-29, in addition to the French Rafale and indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, the Su-57 presents a coherent option for integration into the existing fleet. Furthermore, India is simultaneously advancing its own indigenous program, developing the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which aligns with its broader objectives for defense self-reliance. This homegrown aircraft is expected to enter operational service around 2035.
As of now, India has yet to make a formal announcement regarding its final choice in the fifth-generation aircraft segment, leaving open the possibility for further developments in this area.
