India is facing a big decision about its air force. Russia has offered to sell and help build its most advanced stealth fighter jet, the Su-57E, in India. This deal also includes another powerful jet, the Su-35M, and promises full technology transfer. With rising threats from China and Pakistan and not enough fighter jets in service, India must decide whether to accept this rare offer, which could boost its strength quickly but also comes with some risks.
India is at a critical point in its defence strategy. With rising threats from China and Pakistan and its fighter jet squadrons dropping to dangerously low numbers, a new offer from Russia could change the game. Russia has offered India its latest Su-57E stealth fighter along with the Su-35M in a deal that also includes full technology transfer and local production at HAL’s Nashik facility. This dual-package deal is worth around $5 billion, and it could be a big step forward, but it also comes with some risks. The Su-57E is Russia’s most advanced fifth-generation stealth fighter. It can handle air-to-air combat, ground strikes, and even electronic warfare. It’s powered by two powerful engines (Saturn AL-41F1) and can reach a top speed of around 1,350 km/h. With in-flight refuelling, it can travel as far as 7,800 km. The jet includes a top-tier AESA radar system (N036 Byelka) and an infrared search-and-track system, and it uses AI-based avionics that act like a “virtual co-pilot.” Its weapon systems are impressive: R-77M air-to-air missiles with 190 km range R-37M missiles that can hit targets 400 km away Kh-59MK2 precision missiles for ground targets Russia also claims the Su-57 has been used successfully in Ukraine, though these claims haven’t been independently confirmed. While Russia calls the Su-57 a stealth fighter, some Western experts say its radar cross-section (0.1–0.5 sqm) is bigger than the US-made F-35’s (0.005–0.3 sqm). This could make it easier to detect. However, Russia is offering something unique: access to the aircraft’s full source code and 40–60% local manufacturing in India. This level of tech sharing is rare, especially compared to what Western countries offer. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is in trouble. It currently has only 31 fighter squadrons, way below the sanctioned 42. With MiG-21 Bisons retiring by 2025, the number could fall to 29 squadrons—similar to levels during the 1965 war with Pakistan. Meanwhile: Pakistan plans to buy 40 Chinese J-35A stealth fighters by 2027. There are rumors Pakistan could even get access to China’s J-20 if deliveries are delayed. China already has 200–300 J-20 fighters and is making 60 more per year. This puts India at a strategic disadvantage in the region. India is developing its own stealth fighter called the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), with a target of 2035 for service entry. The project, cleared in May 2025 with a budget of ₹15,000 crore, aims to feature stealth design, internal weapons, AESA radar, and Indian-made systems. But progress is slow: First prototype expected by 2029 Production by 2035 Experts say delays are likely, just like in the Tejas program, which took over 30 years India needs a solution now, not 10 years later. If India buys the Su-57E, it can get: Long-range missiles (like the R-37M) to target enemy AWACS and support aircraft. Tools for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD), helpful against China’s HQ-9 and Pakistan’s air defence systems. AI-based avionics and network warfare features, perfect for India’s modern Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS)—proven during Operation Sindoor in 2025. Russia even offers manned-unmanned teaming with the S-70 Okhotnik-B drone, showing it wants to help India build a modern air combat force. One of the biggest selling points? Source code access. India would be able to Integrate Indian weapons like the Astra BVR missile, Rudram anti-radiation missile, and Virupaksha AESA radar Modify or upgrade systems as needed Avoid restrictions usually imposed by Western suppliers But There Are Still Risks The Su-57’s stealth is not as good as Western jets like the F-35 Sanctions on Russia have made it harder to get high-end microchips, possibly affecting avionics Long-term support and upgrades could be harder due to Russia’s geopolitical isolation Still, the Su-57 is faster (Mach 2) than the F-35 (Mach 1.6), has a greater combat range (1,900 km vs. 1,500 km), and offers superior maneuverability thanks to thrust-vectoring engines. The Su-57E is also cheaper: $35–40 million per unit, compared to the F-35’s $80–100 million Lower maintenance and operation costs, especially since India already uses Russian systems The deal includes the Su-35M, which is 70–80% similar to the Su-30MKI, making it easier for IAF to adopt This package can meet both short-term and long-term needs until the AMCA is ready. Choosing the Su-57E will shape India’s air force for decades: It helps close the gap with China and Pakistan It strengthens India’s defence industry with real technology transfer But it also increases dependence on Russia, which might be risky due to sanctions and limited global access This partnership could open doors to more Russian tech, like the S-500 air defence system and more advanced naval equipment, if it becomes successful. The Su-57E offer is more than just a fighter deal - it’s about India’s broader goals of: Securing its borders Achieving defence self-reliance Becoming a global power But the choice won’t be easy. India must balance immediate defence needs, long-term strategy, economic realities, and geopolitical risks. In the coming months, India’s decision could redefine its defence future and send a strong message about its place in the world.India's Big Decision: Will It Buy Russia’s Su-57 Stealth Fighter?
