RuAviation

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering the acquisition of fifth-generation fighter aircraft to modernize its fleet. The primary contenders are Russia’s Su-57 and the American F-35. The IAF’s minimum requirement is estimated at two to three squadrons, equating to 36–54 aircraft. As an alternative, India is also reviewing the development of its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, though its timeline remains uncertain.

According to Asian News International, citing a source within India’s Ministry of Defence, Indian and Russian specialists are jointly assessing the investment required to establish Su-57 production at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facilities in Nashik. This plant currently manufactures the Su-30MKI under license, providing an established production base and experienced workforce for Su-57 assembly. Additionally, Indian enterprises already produce components for the Su-30MKI using Russian technology, which could help reduce costs through localized production of the fifth-generation fighter.

India previously participated in the FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft) project, a joint development initiative based on the Su-57. In 2018, New Delhi withdrew from the program, citing concerns over the aircraft’s stealth characteristics, avionics, combat capabilities, and financial disagreements. However, the evolving international security environment and increasing demands on India’s combat aviation fleet have renewed interest in potential cooperation.

In parallel, India is advancing its AMCA program. Official statements indicate plans to build five prototypes by 2027 and commence serial production by 2035. However, the lack of completed testing and uncertain funding make the program’s timeline unpredictable.

The Su-57 is a twin-engine, heavy-class fighter with a maximum speed of approximately Mach 2. Its maximum range at subsonic cruise with full internal fuel is 2,670 nautical miles (4,300 km), extendable to 3,420 nautical miles (5,500 km) with external drop tanks (2,000 or 3,400 liters, designated PTB-2000 or PTB-3400 in Russian sources). At supersonic speed without afterburner, the aircraft can cover up to 1,080 nautical miles (2,000 km) on a full fuel load. The Su-57 is capable of employing a wide array of munitions against ground, maritime, and aerial targets.

The F-35, by contrast, features a single-engine configuration, a maximum speed of Mach 1.6, a combat radius of approximately 600 nautical miles (1,100 km), and an integrated weapons management system. Preliminary data on the AMCA suggest it will meet modern stealth requirements and be powered by either an Indian or foreign engine, though specific parameters have not been disclosed.

Defense analysts note that localizing Su-57 production in India could reduce acquisition costs for the IAF, enhance technological independence, and generate additional jobs in the aerospace sector. Leveraging HAL’s manufacturing capabilities and collaborating with Indian firms experienced in Russian technology could accelerate the integration of the new platform.

Amid global defense market uncertainties and restrictions on Western technology transfers, India is seeking to diversify its combat aviation sources. The ongoing investment assessment reflects the deepening partnership between Moscow and New Delhi. The final platform selection will depend on cost analysis, delivery timelines, localization levels, and political considerations. India also notes that the Russian fifth-generation fighter already has foreign customers scheduled to receive their first aircraft by the end of this year, underscoring the urgency of fielding its own fifth-generation squadrons in the near future.