As tensions between India and Pakistan escalated following the high-stakes Operation Sindoor, focus has once again shifted to advancements in aerial combat capabilities.
In a strategic move, Russia has once again offered India its most advanced export-grade fifth-generation fighter, the Su-57E, according to Indian Defence Research Wing.
Sources within Rostec, Russia's state-owned defense conglomerate, revealed that the latest proposal includes significant localization. The offer comes with a promise – deeper localisation, seamless integration with Indian systems and full support for 'Make-in-India' defense ambitions.
The Su-57E would be equipped with critical technologies aligned with India's Super-30 upgrade program - such as a Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based AESA radar and an Indian-developed mission computer.
Russia has also shown willingness to permit India to make custom modifications to the aircraft. According to sources, this includes potential access to source codes and technology transfer, opening the door for collaboration with Indian firms like HAL and select private companies in co-producing the stealth fighter.
Nashik facility of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) is identified as the ideal site by the Rostec for the Su-57E production in India. This plant has already successfully manufactured over 220 Su-30MKI jets under license, already possesses much of the necessary tooling and ground equipment, making it a cost-effective choice for the Su-57E program.
This integration aims to create operational synergy between the Su-57E and the Indian Air Force’s upgraded Su-30MKI fleet, allowing for seamless deployment of domestically developed air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons. The offer aligns with India's broader goal of strengthening defense self-reliance through indigenous systems.
Russia has also offered to supply 20–30 Su-57E jets off the shelf to help the IAF quickly gain fifth-generation capability, while full localization - including integration of Indian systems could take 3–4 years.
About Su-57E
The Su-57E is Russia’s sole fifth-generation stealth fighter, engineered to remain undetected by advanced radar systems. It features stealth-optimized design, supercruise capability, and is armed with R-37M missiles capable of hitting targets up to 400 km away.
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