India’s growing strategic and regional security challenges have reignited discussions around advanced fighter jet procurement, and Russia’s fifth-generation Sukhoi Su-57 is back in the spotlight. As the Indian Air Force (IAF) continues to modernise its fleet, the Su-57 has emerged once again as a potential solution to bridge the stealth gap in India’s aerial capabilities.
What Is the Su-57?
The Sukhoi Su-57 is Russia’s premier fifth-generation multirole fighter designed for air superiority and ground attack. Developed by Sukhoi under the PAK FA program, the Su-57 combines stealth technology, supercruise capability, advanced avionics, and high manoeuvrability. It entered limited service with the Russian Aerospace Forces in 2020 and has since been undergoing gradual deployment with ongoing upgrades.
Key features include
- Stealth profile with internal weapons bays
- 3D thrust vectoring engines for extreme agility
- Advanced sensor fusion and radar systems
- Capability to carry hypersonic missiles and other advanced munitions
Why Does It Matter for India?
India had initially partnered with Russia in the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project based on the Su-57 but pulled out in 2018, citing concerns over cost, stealth performance, and technology sharing. However, with China’s growing aerial prowess—especially its Chengdu J-20 stealth jets—and delays in India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, the conversation is shifting.
Recent reports indicate that Russia has offered India a customised Su-57 variant, with potential local production under “Make in India” if strategic agreements align.
Strategic and Operational Implications
- Counter to China’s J-20: The Su-57 offers capabilities comparable or superior in certain areas, potentially providing India with an edge over its eastern neighbour.
- Force Multiplier: Integrated with IAF’s current fleet of Rafales, Su-30MKIs, and Tejas, the Su-57 could act as a powerful force multiplier.
- Technology Transfer: India’s renewed interest could hinge on deeper tech transfer commitments, essential for indigenous defense manufacturing.
The Road Ahead
While no official confirmation has come from the Ministry of Defence, multiple defence analysts suggest that India is evaluating the Su-57 as part of its long-term fighter roadmap. Given that the AMCA is not expected before 2032, the Su-57 could fill a crucial capability gap in the interim.
However, challenges remain:
- Cost and maintenance: Russian aircraft are known for higher maintenance demands.
- Operational compatibility: Integrating Russian systems with India’s predominantly Western-origin avionics and weapon systems may require significant adaptation.
Conclusion
For India, acquiring the Su-57 would be more than just a defence deal. It would mark a return to high-level Indo-Russian defence collaboration and a bold step toward shaping a modern, stealth-enabled air force. As the skies over Asia grow more contested, India must carefully weigh performance, cost, and geopolitical implications before committing to any fifth-generation fighter.
