SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Russia is making a renewed push to attract India to its fifth-generation Su-57 fighter jet program, claiming to have addressed key concerns raised by the Indian Air Force (IAF) that led to India’s exit in 2018.
The IAF had reservations about the baseline Su-57, particularly its engine and stealth capabilities. The original AL-41F engine, based on the Su-30MKI’s engine, limited the jet’s ability to achieve sustained supersonic speeds without afterburner, a vital feature for a true fifth-generation fighter. Additionally, the IAF questioned the overall stealth design of the Su-57.
Russia claims significant improvements in the Su-57M variant, now entering service with the Russian Air Force. The new AL-51F1 engine reportedly delivers a considerable boost in thrust, potentially addressing the IAF’s concerns about afterburner reliance. Additionally, Russia is testing the engine with a flat nozzle with a variable thrust vector, a feature that could contribute to a lower radar cross-section (RCS) and improved stealth. Furthermore, Russia suggests incorporating advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems into the Su-57M.
Despite these upgrades, the IAF appears unfazed. India has invested heavily in its indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program and may not be keen on revisiting the Su-57 platform, even in its upgraded form. The option of directly buying the Su-57M also seems unlikely.
While Russia touts the Su-57M’s improvements, it remains to be seen if these advancements are enough to reignite India’s interest. India’s focus on the AMCA program suggests a preference for domestic development. However, the situation remains fluid, and future developments could influence India’s decision.
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