Russia has proposed to India the localized production of the Su-57E, the export version of its fifth-generation fighter jet, along with offers of key technology transfers for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. The offer was made by Rosoboronexport, Russia’s state-owned defense export company, on the sidelines of Aero India 2025.
According to a Rosoboronexport spokesperson, the company, in collaboration with United Aircraft Corporation, is ready to begin local production of the Su-57E at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facilities as early as this year.
The proposal includes technology transfers related to critical components such as engines, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, optics, artificial intelligence, software, and advanced weapons. The aim is to support the indigenous development of India’s AMCA, and to enhance India’s self-reliance in defense technology. According to the Rosoboronexport spokesperson, manufacturing these technologies in India would also eliminate the risk of future supply chain disruptions.
This offer seeks to revive the Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program between India and Russia. India had withdrawn from the joint program in 2018 due to disagreements over technology transfer terms. The Su-57E offer comes as the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces challenges with its fighter fleet, currently operating with 31 squadrons compared to the sanctioned 42. India is also considering the American F-35 fighter jet.
The Su-57E has a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 and can carry up to 7.4 tons of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. It has a maximum operating altitude of 54,100 feet and a combat range of approximately 1,864 miles.
Rosoboronexport has proposed comprehensive cooperation on the Su-57E project, including the supply of ready-made aircraft, the organization of joint production in India, and assistance in developing an Indian fifth-generation fighter.
