SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is reportedly set to examine a significant proposal from Russia involving the export of its advanced Su-57E fifth-generation fighter jet to the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to CNBCTV18, the MoD is likely to consider an off-the-shelf purchase of the Su-57E, a move that could bolster India’s aerial capabilities in response to regional security challenges.
The initial report of this offer came from idrw.org, which highlighted Russia’s proposal to provide the Su-57E with full source code access and an opportunity for local manufacturing at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Nashik plant, where the Su-30MKI fighters were previously produced.
Idrw.org has indicated that the MoD, in consultation with the IAF, will assess both the off-the-shelf purchase and the local production options over the next 4-6 weeks before making a decision. This strategic evaluation comes as India seeks to counter China’s offer of 40 J-35A stealth fighters, prompting considerations for a potential acquisition of 40-60 Su-57E jets. The Nashik facility, with its established expertise in manufacturing Su-30MKIs, is seen as a viable hub for localized production, aligning with India’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
The inclusion of source code access is a notable aspect of the deal, offering India unprecedented control over the aircraft’s customization and integration of indigenous systems. This could enhance the IAF’s operational flexibility and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers. The decision will hinge on strategic needs, budgetary considerations, and the IAF’s assessment of the Su-57E’s capabilities against emerging threats, particularly from China’s advancing air force. As discussions progress, this potential acquisition could reshape India’s defense landscape in the coming years.
The Su-57E, Russia’s export variant of its fifth-generation multirole fighter, features advanced stealth, supermaneuverability, and next-generation avionics. It is equipped to perform a range of missions including air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare.
India’s interest in fifth-generation fighters is not new. The IAF had earlier partnered with Russia on the FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft) program based on the Su-57 platform, but it was shelved in 2018 due to concerns over capability gaps and cost. However, the changing security dynamics and China’s rapid stealth fighter deployment seem to have prompted a reassessment.
If the deal materializes, this would mark India’s first operational induction of a fifth-generation stealth platform, potentially giving the IAF a decisive edge in contested airspace and bolstering its deterrent posture along both northern and western frontiers.
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