Russia has begun assessing the financial requirements for manufacturing its Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft in India, defence sources told ANI. The move comes as New Delhi deepens strategic cooperation with Moscow, even as the United States continues to push its F-35 platform while raising trade-related issues with India.
According to sources, India has indicated the need for at least two to three squadrons of fifth-generation fighters, with both the Russian Su-57 and American F-35 under consideration. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which already manufactures the Su-30MKI under license at its Nashik facility, could be tapped for local production of the Su-57. Other Indian defence units currently engaged in building Russian-origin systems may also be involved, potentially reducing costs.
Moscow has long urged New Delhi to consider the Su-57 and may even revive discussions on the earlier joint fifth-generation fighter aircraft project, which India withdrew from nearly a decade ago. The renewed talks gain significance in the backdrop of shifting global alignments and rising security challenges.
Meanwhile, India is simultaneously pursuing its own indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft programme, cleared by the government in 2024. The first prototype is expected to take flight by 2028, with induction planned by 2035.
