Su-57 stealth fighter jet: Russia has given an important proposal to India in the defense sector. Moscow wants his most advanced SU-57 stealth fighter jet be prepared in India itself. For this, Russia is studying investment possibilities. Russia’s SU-57, America’s F-35 and China’s J-20 are considered competitive.
Fifth generation multi-roll jet
SU-57 is a fifth generation multi-roll fighter jet developed by Sukhoi company of Russia. NATO has named it ‘Felon’. The jet took his first flight in 2010 and joined the Russian Air Force in 2020. This wind, land and sea – can fight on all three fronts. Russia currently has 21 production models and an order of 76 has been ordered. This jet has also been used in Ukraine War.
The specialty and technology of su-57
SU-57 includes stealth technology, whose radar reflective surface is only 0.1 square meters. It has two AL-41F1 engines, which has a maximum speed of 2,450 km/h. This fighter jet can carry up up to 10 tons of weapons, including air-to-air and cruise missiles. Equipped with N036 Byelka AESA radar and AI assisted systems, this jet provides 360 ° coverage. Its price is around $ 50 million per jet, which is quite affordable compared to F-35. The SU-57 is a nuclear capable and can operate into “Loyal Wingman” mode with drones.
New chapter of India-Russia Defense Cooperation
The defense cooperation of India and Russia is decades old. 60% of India’s weapons are associated with Russian technology. SU-30mki is a big example of this, which is made in hal Nashik. In 2007, both countries started the FGFA project, but India did not join it in 2018. Now Russia has again introduced the offer of SU-57e. It was showcased at the Aero India show in February 2025. Russia has indicated that local production of SU-57 can be started by upgrading the HAL Nashik plant, which will also include technology transfer.
India’s strength and challenges
This deal can also help India’s AMCA project, whose first flight is fixed till 2028 and commissioning 2035. If the deal is confirmed, then India can get 20–30 su-57 jets in the next 3-4 years. Local production will increase employment and India will get the ability to make Fifth Generation Jet. However, technology will have to be investigated and the threat of international sessions will have to be taken into account.