Russia Offers Su-57E & Su-35M Jets: A Game-Changer for Indian Air Force and 'Make in India'

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Mon Jul 07 13:53:23 IST 2025
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Russia has made a strategic defence proposal to India that could significantly enhance the Indian Air Force's firepower and fast-track India's ambitions for indigenous defence manufacturing. The offer includes:

  • Transfer of technology and production of Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighters in India.

  • Direct supply of Su-35M 4.5-generation fighters for the Indian Air Force’s MRFA (Multirole Fighter Aircraft) tender.

This could not only address the shortage of fighter squadrons in the IAF but also push forward India’s self-reliance and capability in next-gen aerospace tech

.

What’s in Russia’s Offer?

  • Su-57E Stealth Jet Manufacturing in India

    • Russia will initially supply 20–30 Su-57E jets, followed by domestic manufacturing of 60–70 more by 2030 at HAL’s Nashik plant.

    • India to receive full access to source code, allowing indigenous weapons like Astra, Rudram, and Virupaksha AESA radar to be integrated.

    • Over 40–60% components to be locally manufactured, giving a major boost to the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program.

  • Supply of Su-35M Jets

    • Russia has offered 114 Su-35M fighters under the MRFA deal.

  • These jets share 70–80% commonality with Su-30MKI, reducing training needs.

  • New engines (AL-41F1S) and upgraded avionics will also be used to modernize existing Su-30MKIs.

    • How India Benefits

    • Boost to IAF squadron strength: India currently has only 31 squadrons against the required 42. Su-35Ms could help fill this gap quickly.

    • Make in India push: Manufacturing the Su-57E domestically supports India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem

    .

  • Technology infusion: India will gain access to stealth, engine, and radar tech that can benefit indigenous platforms like AMCA.

  • Cost-effective alternatives:

    • Su-35M: ~$65–80 million

    • Rafale: ~$120 million

    • F-35A: ~$80–100 million
      Su-35M offers powerful specs at a lower price point than Western competitors.

    • Operational Advantage

    • Su-57E: India’s first fifth-generation stealth platform.

    • Su-35M: Can deploy R-37M hypersonic missiles (range up to 400 km), providing an edge over Pakistan’s J-10C and China’s J-20/J-35.

    • Su-30MKI upgrades: Extended life to 2055, enhanced combat capabilities with new engines and avionics.

    Challenges Ahead

    • US Sanctions Risk (CAATSA): Like the S-400 deal, this could attract US sanctions.

    • Russian supply reliability: Ongoing Ukraine war has already affected Russian logistics; timely delivery of parts and upgrades remains a concern.

  • Rafale vs Su-35 debate: Rafale is proven and NATO-interoperable, while Su-35 offers more power and affordability. The decision could strain diplomatic balance between East and West.

    • Conclusion: Strategic Shift or Tactical Purchase?

    If accepted, this Russia-India fighter jet deal could redefine IAF’s future. It offers a fast-tracked route to a stealth fighter fleet, enhances squadron strength, and accelerates indigenous defence production. However, geopolitical risks, logistics, and integration with existing systems

    must be carefully considered.

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