RuAviation

The United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) will unveil the export version of its fifth-generation Su-57E fighter at the Aero India 2025 international air show, scheduled to take place in Bangalore from 10th to 14th February. This was announced by the UAC press office.

The aircraft will be demonstrated as part of the flying display and static exhibition, and an interactive VR simulator of the Su-57E will also be on show.

“Rosoboronexport will showcase this modification for the first time, with series production established at UAC facilities. The Su-57E’s participation in Aero India 2025 underscores Russia’s commitment to strengthen its position in the Indian arms market and revive co-operation in the design and manufacture of aircraft,” UAC commented.

Test pilot Sergei Bogdan of the Sukhoi Design Bureau’s flying display in the Su-57 is expected to be a key highlight of the air show. His aerobatics at Airshow China previously generated significant interest among professionals and spectators alike. During Aero India 2025, Rosoboronexport plans to hold talks with Indian partners regarding the possibility of establishing a licensed production line for the Su-57E within India. A potential agreement would align with the government’s “Make in India” programme, aimed at fostering domestic manufacturing in the defence sector.

The proposal to localise production of the Su-57E could be seen as an attempt to reset relations within the framework of joint work on a fifth-generation fighter. In the past, India had voiced dissatisfaction with the characteristics of the Russian prototype, specifically the low radar cross-section (RCS) and engine power. In 2016, the Indian military raised 43 points of criticism and shortcomings regarding the aircraft, information that subsequently became public knowledge in 2017.

Failed Indo-Russian Fifth Generation Fight Aircraft – FGFA project

The FGFA project, like many other joint ventures, encountered difficulties related to technology transfer and the allocation of intellectual property rights. Delhi expressed concerns that the FGFA aircraft offered to India would differ significantly from the PAK FA. Furthermore, the cost of the programme remained an open question, provisionally estimated at around $25 billion for 127 aircraft.

Despite past disagreements, interest in modern Russian fighters remains in India. Establishing series production of the Su-57E on Indian soil, in a similar fashion to the Su-30MKI production, could represent a compromise solution that serves the interests of both parties. Localisation would grant India access to advanced technologies and strengthen its defence industrial base.

An alternative scenario would involve India intensifying its own development efforts in the field of fifth-generation fighters. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) could focus on advancing the AMCA project, which is scheduled to take to the skies by 2032. Successful implementation of this programme would enable India to become an independent player in the combat aviation market and meet the needs of its own Air Force for modern fighters.