Su-57E Stealth Jet: Russia’s 50-Year Vision for India’s Air Force

Russia is making a robust bid to sell its export variant of the Su-57 stealth fighter, the Su-57E, to India, presenting a package that encompasses extensive technology transfer and local assembly rights. The CEO of Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (OAK), Vadim Badekha, emphasized that this offer is designed to create a comprehensive future air combat capability ecosystem for India, not just deliver aircraft. He asserted that the Su-57E is uniquely positioned to meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) enduring requirements. The proposed cooperation model includes an initial supply of aircraft from Russia, followed by licensed production within India. A complementary initiative could also involve embedding certain Su-57 technologies into the IAF’s current Su-30MKI fleet, offering both immediate capability enhancements and a structured approach to technology acquisition. Russian officials highlight that the Su-57E has undergone significant upgrades since India’s exit from the FGFA program in 2018. Key advancements include improved sensor suites, new weapon integration, and the ongoing development of the advanced ‘stage two’ engine, Izdeliye 177, promising superior supercruise, reduced radar observability, and better thermal signature management. OAK describes the offer as a holistic program, designed to equip India with operational expertise and the capacity for independent maintenance and upgrades, aligning with national industrial objectives. This intensified marketing of the Su-57E follows President Putin’s recent summit in India, where defense cooperation was a prominent topic. Russia is keen to preserve its role as a primary defense supplier to India, especially as global dynamics and market share shifts influence its defense exports. The Su-57E’s updated features, comprehensive technology sharing, and potential for domestic production make it a significantly more compelling offer, posing a strategic question for the IAF about the long-term value of investing in this advanced stealth platform and its integration with existing assets.