The Indian Defence Ministry may soon collaborate with Russia on the making and supplying of Sukhoi Su-57 fighter jets amid efforts to ramp up military preparedness. Officials confirmed that New Delhi is currently in talks with several key allies and partners to explore the possibility of acquiring fifth-generation fighter aircraft as an interim solution. Meanwhile, the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme continues to advance with an estimated timeline of 10 years. The developments also come amid speculation that neighbouring Pakistan will soon induct Chinese fifth-generation fighter jets.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh told CNBC-TV18 that talks were currently underway with global partners but remained at a preliminary stage. Both Russia and the US publicly signaled their willingness to offer fifth-generation fighter aircraft to India. These possible collaborations are being viewed as a shorter-term solution while India continues its AMCA program.
According to a Firspost report released last month, the Russian deal includes a transfer of technology and aligns greatly with the Make in India initiative. The offer is reportedly not limited to the production of existing aircraft such as the Su-30MKI but also includes technology transfer and joint production of newer and significantly more advanced platforms.
Make in India and upcoming Putin visit
Russia has reportedly offered a full technology transfer and co-production of the Su-57 in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Joint production of the Su-57E (the export variant of the Su-57) would take place at the HAL Nashik facility where the Su-30MKI is already assembled. The proposal has gained additional scrutiny in recent days as Russian President Vladimir Putin prepares for a high-profile visit to India later this year.